Heat Resistant Descent Controller

ABSTRACT

A load lowering descent controller having a fixed cylindrical body or capstan about which a rope or cable is turned. The descent controller allows for lowering of the load at a controlled rate by adjusting the amount of friction between the controller and the rope or cable as a function of rope or cable turning and relative contact with rope or cable engagement surfaces in the controller. The fixed cylindrical body or capstan is surrounded by a vented sleeve to prevent the rope from becoming heated and to prevent the user from being injured.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

Applicant incorporates herein by reference U.S. Pat. No. 7,131,515 B2;U.S. application Ser. No. 10/251,090; U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 60/324,756. This disclosure is a non-provisionalconversion of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/306,712,filed on Feb. 4, 2022; which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.application Ser. No. 16/850,556 filed on Apr. 16, 2020, now U.S. Pat.No. 10,918,892 B2; which is a non-provisional of U.S. Design PatentApplication Nos. 29/709,731, 29/709,729 and 29/709,730 filed on Oct. 16,2019 and a non-provisional conversion of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/834,782, filed Apr. 16, 2019, the entirety ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for allpurposes.

BACKGROUND Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a descent controller. Moreparticularly, and not by way of limitation, the present disclosure isdirected to an apparatus, system, and method for a heat resistantdescent controller.

Background

This background section is intended to provide a discussion of relatedaspects of the art that could be helpful to understanding theembodiments discussed in this disclosure. It is not intended thatanything contained herein be an admission of what is or is not priorart, and accordingly, this section should be considered in that light.

Descent assistance devices have been used for many years to aid in thelowering of a user or a load from a higher elevation to a lowerelevation. These devices have taken many different forms and utilizedvarious elements to provide a mechanical advantage and/or braking inorder to control the descent of the user or load. Concerns withoccupational safety have led to the development of mechanisms thatenable a worker to lower himself from an elevated position such as ascaffold, crane, lift truck or platform in the event of an emergencysuch as a fire or fall.

As newly constructed buildings continue to increase in height, and thedensity of buildings increase, the length of rope to support a user orload also increases. One problem that arises with longer ropedeployments is the heat that is generated in the descent controllerdevice upon descent of a desired distance by a user. As a user brakesand/or controls his or her descent, the descent controller and ropeindividually and together generate significant heat. In some cases, theheat generated can exceed 300° F. As heat is generated, coatings andrope materials such as wax, and/or nylon begin to melt causing a buildupof this material within the descent controller. The buildup can causeadditional heat to be generated from the material-to-material contact(wax-on-wax contact) that generates increased friction and heat.

It would be advantageous to have a descent controller that overcomes thedisadvantages of the prior art.

BRIEF SUMMARY

This summary provides a discussion of aspects of certain embodiments ofthe invention. It is not intended to limit the claimed invention or anyof the terms in the claims. The summary provides some aspects, but thereare aspects and embodiments of the invention that are not discussedhere.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a new and improvedload lowering descent controller of the type embodying a fixedcylindrical body or capstan about which a rope or cable is turned.Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a descentcontroller of the foregoing character that may be actuated for loweringa load such as an unconscious user or equipment. A further object of thepresent disclosure is to provide a descent controller of the foregoingcharacter, having a compact and robust design. Still another object ofthe present disclosure is to provide a descent controller wherein theoperating components are substantially enclosed with a vented sleeve. Anadditional object of the present disclosure is to provide a descentcontroller having the foregoing characteristics, which enables the userto adjust the mechanical advantage of the device. A further object ofthe present disclosure is to provide vents in a sleeve or protectivesleeve to prevent the rope from generating excessive heat during adescent. The sleeve or protective sleeve can be manufactured throughadditive manufacturing, injection molding, milling, or othermanufacturing techniques.

Briefly, one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises an improveddescent controller for lowering a load along a rope from an elevatedposition to a relatively lower position. The controller comprises ahousing, having a friction cylinder or capstan of a length adapted toreceive a plurality of turns of the rope wrapped therearound. Thehousing has an upper end portion and a lower end portion, with top andbottom end plates attached respectively adjacent the upper end portionand spaced from the lower end portion of the housing. The lower endportion has a transverse through aperture connecting to a generallylongitudinal aperture. The top end plate has a portion thereofoverhanging the cylinder and defining radial slots sized to looselyreceive the rope. The housing defines a longitudinal counterboreintersecting the transverse through aperture at the housing lower endportion. An elongated aperture extends transversely through the housingupper end portion and intersects the counterbore.

A plunger comprises a bottom portion disposed within the housingcounterbore and a top portion disposed adjacent the housing top plate.The plunger may include an intermediate portion having a diameterbetween the diameter of the bottom and top portions. The bottom portionof the plunger extends below the lower end plate and definesdiametrically therethrough a downwardly narrowing tapered slot. Thetapered slot defines an enlarged end adapted to freely admit the ropeand tapers from the enlarged end to a relatively constricted end of awidth sufficient for gripping the rope.

A bias member is disposed within the counterbore and between the plungerbottom portion and the housing. The bias member urges the plunger towarda position for wedging the rope in the narrow end of the tapered slot.An outer sleeve is secured to the plunger top portion for use in slidingthe plunger against the force of the biasing spring to release the ropefrom the narrow end of the tapered slot. The sleeve defines a housingsubstantially enclosing the plunger, spring, friction cylinder, and therope wrapped therearound. The lower portion of the sleeve may alsoinclude a longitudinally extending slot therein of sufficient width forfreely receiving the rope. Means are provided on the lower end of thehousing for engagement with a load support. The descent controllersupports a load on the rope and, upon sliding movement of the sleeve,provides for a controlled descent of descent controller and thesupported load along the rope.

In another aspect of the disclosure, the controller can be secured at anelevated position and actuated at that point to lower a rope-supportedload. The present disclosure provides a descent controller thatsubstantially encloses the working components. Additionally, the descentcontroller can use parts that are robust in construction while requiringonly a fraction of the length of some known controllers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the disclosure are setforth in the appended claims. The disclosure itself, however, as well asa preferred mode of use, further objectives, and advantages thereof,will be best understood by reference to the following detaileddescription of illustrative embodiments when read in conjunction withthe accompanying drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating use of an embodiment of adescent controller.

FIG. 2 is side view, partly in phantom and partly in section, of anembodiment of a descent controller.

FIG. 3 is a side view showing the descent controller of FIG. 2 in adifferent orientation.

FIG. 4A is an upper perspective view of an embodiment of a ventedsleeve.

FIG. 4B is a lower perspective view of an embodiment of a vented sleeve.

FIG. 5 is a perspective assembly view of an embodiment of a ventedsleeve together with a housing.

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a housing andprotective sleeve assembly and a vented sleeve.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a plunger.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the plunger of FIG. 7A showing theopposite side.

FIG. 8A is a perspective view of an embodiment of a housing.

FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the housing of FIG. 8A showing theopposite side.

FIGS. 9A and 9B are perspective views of an embodiment of a housingillustrating rope path surfaces.

FIG. 9C is a perspective view of an embodiment of a plunger illustratingrope path surfaces.

FIG. 10A is a side assembly view of an embodiment of a housing andplunger in a first position.

FIG. 10B is a side assembly view of an embodiment of a housing andplunger in a second position.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a visible portion of aplunger after insertion into a housing illustrating securing buttonoperation.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective assembly views of the ends of anembodiment of a vented sleeve and protective sleeve.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of various embodiments of vented sleeveswith alternative vent dimensions and shapes.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination for a descent controller.

FIG. 14B is a side view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 14C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 14D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 14E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 14F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combinationfor a descent controller.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination for a descent controller.

FIG. 15B is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 15C is a side view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 15D is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 15E is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination for a descent controller.

FIG. 15F is a separated view illustration of a multi-sleeve combinationfor a descent controller.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view illustration of a single-sleeve for adescent controller.

FIG. 16B is a side view illustration of a single-sleeve for a descentcontroller.

FIG. 16C is a front view illustration of a single-sleeve for a descentcontroller.

FIG. 16D is a top view illustration of a single-sleeve for a descentcontroller.

FIG. 16E is a bottom view illustration of a single-sleeve for a descentcontroller.

FIG. 16F is a cut-away view illustration of a single-sleeve for adescent controller.

FIG. 17A is a side perspective view illustration of a sleeve for adescent controller.

FIG. 17B is a bottom perspective view illustration of a sleeve for adescent controller.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination for a descent controller.

FIG. 18B is a rear view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 18C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 18D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 18E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 18F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combinationfor a descent controller.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleeve combinationfor a descent controller.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination for a descent controller.

FIG. 20B is a rear view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 20C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 20D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination for adescent controller.

FIG. 20E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination fora descent controller.

FIG. 20F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combinationfor a descent controller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One embodiment of a descent controller 10 of the present disclosure isshown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 . The descent controller comprises a housing12 including a longitudinally oriented capstan 14 such as a cylindershaft or drum about which a length of rope or line 16 is wound. Thenumber of turns of rope is the principal determinate of the capstanratio or mechanical advantage enabling the user or load to descendslowly along the fixed rope as the rope hangs from the elevated point. Auser can change the number of turns of rope wound around the capstan tochange the mechanical advantage and thereby the descent speed. The ropeis secured at one end at an elevated point (not shown) above the groundand hangs downwardly to the ground or a lower platform (not shown). Thedescent controller is mounted on the rope to enable the descentcontroller and user or a load to descend slowly and controllably alongthe fixed length of rope from the elevated point to the lower point,whether the ground or a platform.

In at least one embodiment, the user and the rope may be coupledtogether through a belt 20 or other safely device such as a vest orbackpack. The controller includes means for selectively gripping therope to slow or prevent descent and for selectively releasing the ropeto provide for a controlled descent. In a first extreme position ordeadman position, the controller grips the rope tightly, preventingdescent. In some embodiments, the opposite extreme position comprises acomplete release position wherein the rope is released at a rate limitedby the weight of the load and the number of turns of rope wrapped aroundthe capstan or friction cylinder. Between the extreme positions, therope can be released at a user-controlled rate.

The housing of the descent controller 10 includes a top plate 44adjacent an upper end portion and a bottom portion comprising a bottomplate 46 adjacent a lower end of the capstan 14. Juxtaposed with thebottom portion of the housing is means for receiving a coupling device48, strap 18, supporting rope, hook, loop, carabiner or the like forengaging and supporting a load suspension structure or harness, as shownin FIG. 2 . The housing can be an integral structure.

In FIG. 3 , the housing lower end portion defines a transverse throughaperture 54 connecting to a longitudinal aperture 52, each sized forfreely receiving a portion of the rope. The top plate 44 includes atleast one rope receiving guide notch defined therein for receiving aninserted portion of the rope.

The housing defines a longitudinal counterbore 56 substantiallyconcentric with a center axis and intersecting the transverse throughaperture 54 at the housing lower end portion. Advantageously, thehousing defines a diametrically smaller counterbore in the lower endportion and a diametrically larger counterbore in the intermediate andupper portions.

The housing intermediate and upper portions define at least onelongitudinally elongated aperture 50 intersecting the counterbore.Advantageously, the housing defines a pair of diametrically opposed,longitudinally elongated apertures 50 and at least one of the aperturesextends transversely through the wall of the housing and intersects thecounterbore.

A plunger 28 (partially illustrated in phantom) comprises a bottomportion disposed within the housing counterbore and a top portionoverlying the housing top plate. The plunger 28 includes an intermediateportion that may have a diameter between the bottom and top portions.The plunger 28 intermediate portion defines a diametrical aperturetherethrough. The plunger can be integral to the housing.

The housing is secured to the plunger by at least one stop pin 36, shownin FIG. 2 , extending through the plunger diametrical aperture and thehousing longitudinally elongated aperture 50. The stop pin andlongitudinally elongated aperture combine to limit the plunger to onlyaxial movement between the extreme raised and lowered positions.

In one embodiment, the bottom portion of the plunger extends below thelower end plate and defines diametrically therethrough a narrowingtapered slot (not illustrated) having a generally teardrop shape. Theslot tapers from an enlarged end that loosely receives the rope to anarrow or gripping end that frictionally grips the rope. A rope passingthrough the open end of the slot moves freely through the slot. However,the rope is tightly gripped and restrained by the narrower end of theslot. The housing transverse aperture 54 positively positions the ropein the slot. The transverse aperture 54 receives the rope and allows therope to pass freely through the enlarged end of the tapered slot whenthe plunger is in a lowered position, as well as receiving the rope toforce or jam the rope into the narrow end of the tapered slot when theplunger is in its upper position.

While a downwardly narrowing tapered slot is disclosed, it should beunderstood that other slots having different configurations in which therope is loosely received in one portion and restrained from passage inanother portion are possible and all such configurations are encompassedby the disclosure. For example, the slot may have an enlarged centralportion connecting opposing narrower portions in a general diamondshape.

As shown in FIG. 3 , The rope is inserted through the transverse throughaperture 54 and longitudinal aperture 52, wound in a number of coils orturns about the capstan or friction cylinder 14 between the bottom andtop plates and disposed through the top plate guide notch.

A bias member functions to urge the plunger toward its rope gripping ordeadman position, wherein the narrower end of the slot is aligned withthe housing transverse through aperture 54. In this position, the slotnarrow end restrains the rope from passing through the descentcontroller. The bias member can be, for example, a coil spring 32disposed between an interior wall 38 of the counterbore and an outersurface 40 of the bottom portion of the plunger. Preferably, a lower endof the spring is supported by a thrust shoulder 34 in the housing lowerend portion, and an opposing upper end of the spring is supported by aplunger thrust shoulder defined at the intersection of the plungerbottom and intermediate portions.

A sleeve or housing 30 is secured to the plunger top portion. As shownin FIGS. 2 and 3 , the sleeve extends in surrounding covering relationwith the plunger intermediate and lower portions, spring, capstan, ropeturns, the housing upper and lower plates and some of the housing lowerend portion. Advantageously, the sleeve is removably secured to theplunger top portion by, for example, ball detents 26 or threadedfasteners so that the sleeve can be removed to facilitate disassemblyand reassembly of the descent controller.

In one embodiment, the sleeve 30 can have a knurled, grooved orroughened outer surface to enable a user to readily grip the housingsurface without slipping, to actuate the plunger. Adjacent its loweredge, the sleeve is provided with a longitudinally extending peripheralnotch that aligns with the housing transverse aperture and through whichthe rope loosely extends.

Because the sleeve is rotationally secured to the plunger, and theplunger is rotationally secured to the housing by, for example, the stoppin, there is no tendency for the sleeve and/or plunger to rotate withrespect to the capstan cylinder in this embodiment, thereby minimizingbinding or jamming of the rope during descent.

In the event that a user completely releases the sleeve, e.g. a deadmanfall, the spring will bias the plunger to a raised or second position sothat the transverse aperture will jam the rope in the upper tapered endof the slot to prevent or retard further descent. The device can thusprovide for a stop or a controlled descent as desired under deadmanconditions.

FIG. 4A is an upper perspective view of an embodiment of a vented sleeve130. Such a vented sleeve could be used, for example, with the descentcontroller described with reference to FIGS. 1-3 . FIG. 4B a lowerperspective view of an embodiment of a vented sleeve 130. With referenceto FIGS. 4A and 4B, the vented sleeve 130 can be manufactured from aheat resistant material such as but not limited to plastic, heatresistive nylon, glass filled nylon, plastic based composite materials,plastic like composite materials, or other heat resistant materialscapable of additive (three-dimensional printing) manufacturing, milling,and/or injection molding. In at least one embodiment, the vented sleeve130 may be manufactured out of plastic, heat resistant nylon, glassfilled nylon, metals such as aluminum or titanium, and/or compositessuch as carbon fiber or other similar and/or like compounds. The ventedsleeve 130 may also be sized and/or shaped to house a descent controllerwithin it.

For example, the vented sleeve 130, in at least one embodiment, can be acylinder, or elongated cylinder, with a top or upper section, a side orenclosing section, and a bottom or lower section. The side or enclosingsection may be coupled to and/or manufactured as part of the top and/orbottom section. In at least one example, the vented sleeve 130 in afirst position may house or enclose the housing and/or plunger of thedescent controller.

The vented sleeve 130 can have at least one button aperture 131. Thebutton aperture 131 can have an angled lip that can surround the buttonaperture 131. The button aperture 131 can, in at least one example, besubstantially closer to the top than the bottom of the vented sleeve 130along a portion of the side section. The side section may also have oneor more vents 133A, 133B, 133C, 133D, 133E, and/or 133F (collectively133). The vent(s) 133 in at least one example, are substantially ovalwith the semi-major axis extending parallel with the top and bottom ofthe vented sleeve 130. In at least one embodiment, the vent(s) 133 areplaced along the circumference of the vented sleeve 130. When there aretwo or more vent(s) 133, there can be a separation support 135A, 135B,and/or 135C (collectively 135). In at least one example, there may alsobe partial separation support(s) 137. The partial separation support(s)137 can have a depth that is less than the separation support 135. In atleast one embodiment, the partial separation support(s) 137 is at leastone half the depth of the separation support 135, but no more thantwo-thirds the depth of the separation support 135. The vented sleeve130, can have an extending peripheral notch 172 that can align withportions of a descent controller to allow for a rope move freely throughthe descent controller. The bottom of the vented sleeve 130 can have anengaging aperture 139 to allow for a descent controller to be insertedinto and/or within the vented sleeve 130. The vented sleeve 130 can becoupled to a descent controller by a pin placed through a securingaperture 155. The top 153 of the vented sleeve 130 can have a ropeaperture 151 that allows for a rope to pass through the vented sleeve130 from a descent controller.

FIG. 5 is a perspective assembly view of an embodiment of a ventedsleeve together with a housing. The vented sleeve 130 can have one ormore vent(s) 133A, 133B, 133C, 133D, 133E, 133F, 133G, and/or 133H(collectively 133). The vented sleeve 130 can have separation support(s)135A, 135B, and/or 135C (collectively 135). The separation support(s)135 can provide structural integrity to the vented sleeve 130. Forexample, the vented sleeve 130 may have a single set of separationsupports 135 vertically along the outer circumference of the ventedsleeve 130 opposite the button aperture (shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B). Inother examples, the vented sleeve 130 may have more than one set ofseparation supports 135 vertically along the circumference of the ventedsleeve 130. In at least one embodiment, the vented sleeve 130 has twosets of separation supports 135 arranged vertically along thecircumference of the vented sleeve 130. In at least one example, thevented sleeve 130 may also have partial separation support(s) 137A,137B, 137C, and/or 137D (collectively 137). The partial separationsupport(s) 137 would have a depth that is less than the depth (from theouter surface of the vented sleeve 130, to the inner surface of thevented sleeve 130) of the separation support(s) 135.

The vented sleeve 130 can have an extending peripheral notch 172 thatcan align with aperture 154 (a rope travel aperture) that allows for arope to pass through the vented sleeve 130 and a descent controller. Theaperture 154 may be disposed within a housing 112. The housing 112 canreceive a plunger (not illustrated) that can be operated with aresistance device to serve as a lock and/or brake for the rope.Juxtaposed with the bottom portion of the housing is means for receivinga coupling device 148 for attaching a connection, such as, but notlimited to a strap, supporting rope, hook, loop, carabiner or the likefor engaging and supporting a load suspension structure or harness. Thecoupling device 148 and housing 112 can be, but is not required to be,an integral structure as shown in FIG. 5 .

FIG. 6 is a side perspective view of an embodiment of a housing andprotective sleeve assembly and a vented sleeve. The protective sleeve141 (inner sleeve) can have an upper section 143 that has at least onebutton aperture (not shown) that allows for operation of the securingbutton 136. The securing button 136 can pass through the protectivesleeve 141 (inner sleeve) and the vented sleeve 130 (outer sleeve). Theprotective sleeve 141 can also have venting apertures 145A, 145B, 145C,145D, and/or 145E (collectively 145). The protective sleeve 141 may bemanufactured out of plastic, heat resistant nylon, glass filled nylon,metals such as aluminum or titanium, and/or composites such as carbonfiber, plastic based composite materials, metallic based compositematerials, or other similar and/or like compounds. The upper section 143of the protective sleeve 141 (inner vented sleeve) may also have upperventing aperture(s) 147A and/or 147B. The aperture 158 that allows for arope to pass through the vented sleeve 130 and a descent controller maybe disposed within a housing 112. The housing 112 can receive a plunger(not illustrated), which can be operated with a resistance device, suchas, but not limited to a spring, coil, magnets, and/or other devicescapable of resistance, to serve as a lock and/or brake for the rope.Juxtaposed with the bottom portion of the housing is means for receivinga coupling device 148 for attaching a connection such as a strap,supporting rope, hook, loop, carabiner, or the like for engaging andsupporting a load suspension structure or harness like that shown inFIG. 1 . The housing 112 and the receiving means 148 can be an integralstructure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of an embodiment of a plunger 128.With respect to FIGS. 7A and 7B, the plunger 128 can have an upperportion 142, an intermediate portion 162, and/or a bottom or lowerportion 166. In at least one example, the upper portion 142 is at leasttwo or three times larger in diameter than the intermediate portion 162,the diameter of which is larger than the lower portion 166. The upperportion 142 can have one or more rope slot(s) 173A and/or 173B(collectively 173). The rope slots 173 are apertures along thecircumference of the upper portion 142 that allow a rope to pass throughthe plunger 128 and/or the upper portion 142. The upper portion 142 mayalso have a securing button aperture 175 that is sized for receiving asecuring button (not pictured) and/or a biasing or resistive device tocorrespond with the securing button. The intermediate portion 162 mayhave a securing slot 168. The securing slot 168 can be an elongated slotfor receiving a securing pin to limit the travel of the plunger 128against a biasing means or resistance device. For example, the securingslot 168 in combination with a securing pin (not illustrated) canprevent the plunger 128 from overextending or pushing the plunger 128past the housing (see FIGS. 8A and 8B), potentially cutting the rope(not illustrated). In at least one example, the securing slot 168 has adepth less than the diameter of the intermediate portion 162. Lowerportion 166 can also have a narrowing tapered aperture or slot 160 thatallows for the passage of a rope and/or securing line through it.

FIGS. 8A and 8B are perspective views of an embodiment of a housing 112.With regards to FIGS. 8A and 8B, the housing 112 has a capstan 114. Inat least one example, the capstan 114 can be an intermediate portionbetween the top or upper portion 144, and the bottom or lower portion146. The capstan 114, in at least one embodiment, is a smooth surfacethat allows for a rope and/or line to be coiled and/or lined around it,to create a mechanical advantage. In some examples, the upper portion144 and the lower portion 146 are of the same diameter that is greaterthan the diameter of the capstan 114. The upper portion 144, may have atleast one rope aperture 158A and/or 158B (collectively 158) that allowfor the passage of a rope or line from the capstan 114 to a plunger (notillustrated). The rope aperture 158 can be configured to receive andallow the passage or traversal of a rope or line. The upper portion 144may also have a securing pin aperture 150 that intersects the upperportion 144 and is sized and/or configured to receive a securing pin(not illustrated). The securing pin can be utilized to prevent theplunger from exceeding its desired travel distance. In one embodiment,the securing pin aperture 150 in combination with a securing pin (notillustrated) penetrating the securing slot 168 of the plunger 128illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, can prevent the plunger 128 fromextending to point of breaking, cutting and/or severing a rope (notillustrated).

The upper portion 144 and the capstan 114 may be configured to have acounterbore 156 that is concentric with a center axis that passesthrough both the upper portion 144 and the capstan 114. In at least oneexample, the counterbore 156 receives the plunger and/or a biasing,resistance and/or resistive device. The housing 112 and the plunger 128,as illustrated in FIGS. 7A and 7B, move towards one another with theplunger being engaged by a biasing, resistance and/or resistive device.In at least one examples, the biasing, resistance and/or resistivedevice is a spring. The lower portion 146 may have a transverse throughaperture 154 connecting to a longitudinal aperture 152, each sized forfreely receiving a portion of the rope. The longitudinal aperture 152may also be coupled and/or allow for a rope to be received by thecapstan 114. In at least one example, a rope or line may be placedthrough the transverse through aperture 154 that is coupled to thelongitudinal aperture 152, allowing the rope or line to be coiled aroundthe capstan 114 and then traversing the rope aperture 158. In at leastone example, the bore defined by the transverse through aperture 154,longitudinal aperture 152, along with the capstan 114, and the ropeaperture(s) 158 are all smooth to allow a rope or line to pass throughand/or around them without friction or an increase in friction orresistance. The lower portion 146 may also have a receiving means 148 orsecuring loop that allows for ropes, hooks, loops, carabiners, or thelike to be utilized for engaging and supporting a load suspensionstructure or harness by the housing 112.

FIGS. 9A, 9B and 9C are perspective views of an embodiment of a housingand a plunger illustrating the surfaces that allow a rope to traversethe housing and plunger. The surfaces that interact with the rope can besmooth to prevent higher friction coefficients and heat. As the ropepasses over the surfaces, it may deposit its coating or compositionmaterial on to the surface. The deposit of material causes a generationof material-on-material friction that quickly generates significant heatin the housing, plunger, and rope. A traditional sleeve has noventilation, causing heat to continually build over long ropedeployments. As the temperature rises the rope may begin to show signsof charring or burn marks that can cause concern for the user. However,the vented sleeve, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, allows thegenerated heat to be released in a manner that prevents the rope fromcharring or burning.

In any embodiment, the portions of the device in contact with the rope,such as aperture edges, can be polished, chamfered, or rounded to reducethe risk of cutting or damaging the rope. The rope path surfaces asreferenced allow for a nonlinear rope path and are surprisinglyinfluential to rope wear and rope capacity. Preferably, the surfaces inthese areas are smoothly flowing rope paths comprising inner radii ofmore than 1.2 times the rope radius, external radii of more than 3 timesthe rope radius, and rope contact areas with no high spots or ledges.Ropes such as VECTRAN, 12 strand braided rope, available from TheCortland Companies and having a diameter of about 5 mm can be used witha descent controller having the preferred smoothly flowing rope paths.Surfaces in these areas that have an inner radius of less than 1 timesthe rope radius, an external radius of less than 3 times the roperadius, or a high area or ledge may decrease the rope ultimate yieldstrength or carrying capacity by as much as 50 percent.

FIGS. 10A and 10B are side views of an embodiment of a housing andplunger assembly that illustrate the operation of the housing 112 andthe plunger 128. The housing can have a longitudinally oriented capstan114 such as a cylinder shaft or drum about which a length of rope orline is wound. The housing 112 has a section that allows a plunger 128to be inserted within the housing 112 and be longitudinally operated(depressed) 157 against a resistance device or biasing means (notillustrated). The resistance device may be a spring or other device thatwould return the plunger to a first position after being operated to asecond position. The distance between the top portion of the plunger 128and the housing 112 can be a first distance 159A, while in a depressedstate the distance between the top portion of the plunger 128 and thehousing 112 is reduced to a second distance 159B. The securing button136 can be used to secure the plunger 128 and/or housing 112 with aprotective sleeve and/or vented sleeve. With the housing 112 and theplunger 128 at a first distance 159A the aperture 154 and a narrowingtapered slot 160 having a generally teardrop shape, are not aligned. Theslot tapers from an enlarged end (seen in FIG. 10B) that looselyreceives the rope to a narrow or gripping end (see in FIG. 10A) thatfrictionally grips the rope. A rope passing through the open end of theslot moves freely through the slot. However, the rope is tightly grippedand restrained by the narrower end of the slot. When the housing 112 andthe plunger 128 are at a second distance 159B apart, the aperture 154and the narrowing tapered slot 160 are aligned to allow a rope to passthrough them. The rope (not illustrated) may pass through a capstanopening 158, and/or a plunger opening 156. Juxtaposed with the bottomportion of the housing is means for receiving a coupling device 148 forattaching a connection, such as, but not limited to a strap, supportingrope, hook, loop, carabiner or the like for engaging and supporting aload suspension structure or harness.

FIG. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of a visible portion of aplunger after insertion into a housing illustrating the operation of thesecuring button 136. The securing button 136 can be used to secure theplunger 128 and/or housing 112 with a protective sleeve and/or ventedsleeve. When the securing button 136 is depressed 161A within theplunger 128 it allows for the plunger 128 to be removed from a ventedsleeve (not illustrated). In at least one embodiment, when the securingbutton 136 is depressed, the plunger and/or housing may be removed fromthe vented sleeve.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are perspective assembly views of the ends of a ventedsleeve 130 and a protective sleeve 163. The protective sleeve 163 can behoused within the vented sleeve 130. In at least one example, theprotective sleeve 163 can be secured to the vented sleeve 130 via a pinthat passes through a securing aperture (not illustrated). Theprotective sleeve 163 can have vent(s) that align with the vent(s) 133A,133B, 133C, and/or 133D of the vented sleeve 130.

FIG. 13 a perspective view of various embodiments of vented sleeves withalternative vent dimensions and shapes. The first vented sleeve 130A canhave a substantially square vent 165 in combination with a substantiallyrectangular vent 167. The second vented sleeve 130B can havesubstantially oval or rectangular vent(s) 133. The third vented sleeve130C can have substantially round vent(s) 169 in combination with asubstantially rectangular or oval vent(s) 171. Each of the ventedsleeves 130A, 130B, and 130C can have a securing button aperture 131A,131B, and/or 131C, as well as a rope aperture 151A, 151B, and/or 151C.The vented sleeve in at least one example is utilized to provideinsulation from the movement of a rope and/or safety to a user from heatbuilt up from friction. The insulation would prevent excess heat frombuilding up at a user's hands during a descent. The vents in the ventedsleeve and/or the protective sleeve allow for air flow through a descentcontroller, and in particular to the capstan where the rope is coiledand creates friction during a descent. Safety is also increased with thevented sleeve and/or protective sleeve as both are vented to allow airflow to a rope, but also prevent a user from directly contacting therope during a descent. Accordingly, the vents of the vented sleeveand/or protective sleeve, can be sized and/or shaped in any manner thatallows for air flow through the area the rope traverses in a manner tocool the rope during a descent. The vented sleeve and/or protectivesleeve, may also have additional sleeves placed and/or configured in asimilar manner with similar venting to allow for additional insulationand/or safety of a user.

Alternatively, for lowering an unconscious person or other load along arope from an elevated position to a lowered position, the load can besecured to the loop end of the rope and the descent controller securedto a fixed mounting support by attaching the strap hereto. An operatorat the position of the fixed descent controller can reach the sleeve toactuate the controller to control the descent of the load in theharness. The free end of the rope feeds through the controller as theload descends.

A further alternative use of a descent controller embodying the presentdisclosure is for controlling the descent of workstations, such as abosun's chair, while the rider is working on a vertical surface. Theuser secures the descent controller to the bosun's chair and descends toa working position. At the working position the sleeve is released,thereby stopping the descent, and enabling the user to perform a task atthe working position. When the task at that location is finished, theuser can descend to a lower position and continue the work. The descentis controlled by actuating the sleeve of the descent controller toprovide for a controlled descent. For additional safety, the user alsoconventionally employs a separate, secured safety rope (not shown) toprevent accidental descent or catch the user and prevent a fall.

The foregoing descent controller provides a user controllable means fora person located above the ground or floor to descend thereto on a rope.Applications include, but are not limited to, egress from overhead cranecabs, forklift or stock-picker cabs, and the buckets on high-liftutility vehicles. In addition, the device may be used for the evacuationof buildings, bridges, structures, platforms, ships, or aircraft wherethe descent distance is sufficient to cause injury if the user jumpswithout a control device. Another application is for the rescue ofpersons trapped in a building by fire, stranded on a ledge or amountain, or in similar hazardous situations. Police special weaponsteams and armed forces personnel can use the device effectively forcontrolled descent from buildings, ledges, mountains, aircraft and otherelevated positions.

The present disclosure finds particular but not necessarily exclusiveutility in safety escape systems. Such an escape system includes adescent controller in association with a safety rope and a supportingharness such as, for example, a harness of the type disclosed andclaimed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,070,692, issued Dec. 10, 1991. At one end,the rope is provided with a loop or other device to enable the rope tobe secured at an elevated position. The free end of the rope is housedin a container. The rope container, descent controller, and harness arepackaged in a kit containing appropriate instructions. In use, such asfor a descent from a scaffold or lift truck platform, the kit is openedand the loop end of the rope is secured to a fixture at the elevatedlocation. The rope packet is lowered so that the rope extends from thefixture to the ground. The user dons the harness, steps off of theplatform and actuates the descent controller so that the descentcontroller and user descend along the rope to the ground.

As objects and buildings increase in height, there are specific needsfor safety or emergency devices to allow for rescue or safety duringoperations at heights that may in some examples be considered extreme.For example, the control or gear box of a wind generator is now aboutsix hundred (600) feet off the ground. If a person working on the windgenerator falls, or needs to descend from the control or gear box, atraditional descender system utilizing rope will cause significant heatand friction that can result in rope burns, or in an extreme case ropefailure.

FIGS. 14A-15F illustrate an alternative design of the present disclosurecapable of reducing heat during long descents. In at least oneembodiment, there are three sleeves utilized to dissipate heatthroughout the descender device. For example, one way that heat can bedissipated is by utilizing heat sinks or other mechanisms that allow forheat to be drawn away from the heat producing source. In at least oneexample, the present disclosure accomplishes this through the use of aninner sleeve, a middle sleeve, and an outer sleeve. The inner sleeve canbe made of metal to absorb or pull heat away from the descender device,a plastic rigid middle sleeve for dissipating heat drawn into the innersleeve, and an outer sleeve of a deformable plastic to provide furtherinsulation of a user's hands from the middle sleeve in areas where heatis likely to be generated.

The sleeves can all be vented with a plurality of openings that allowair to move through and to the internal void of the sleeves that isconfigured to receive the descender device. A descender device caninteract directly or indirectly with the sleeves to reduce the heatgenerated by the friction and other elements during movement of the ropethrough the descender device. In some examples, there may be a gapbetween the descender device and the inner sleeve, while in otherexamples, the descender device and the inner sleeve may be touching.This gap can be defined as any amount of space between the descenderdevice and the inner sleeve that is substantial enough to be measuredand would not exceed the distance between the inner circumference of theinner sleeve and the outer circumference of the outer sleeve.

FIG. 14A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination 200A for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combinationcan include a vented sleeve 230, which in at least one embodiment, canbe referenced as a middle or intermediate sleeve 230. The vented sleeve230 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic-based material.Examples of a non-pliable plastic or composite-based material areacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), and/ornylon. It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions may be substituted and/or added to the composition withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additives mayinclude strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportive orthermal structure of the material.

The vented sleeve 230 can include at least one button aperture 231 toallow for a user (not illustrated) to access a portion of a descentcontroller (not illustrated). The at least one button aperture 231 caninclude an aperture passing through one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve combination 200A. In at least one example, the at least onebutton aperture 231 may have an engagement surface that allows for aconcave design from the outer surface to the inner surface of one ormore of the sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. The concavedesign may also include an oval or circular design on the outer surfaceand a smaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve design.

The multi-sleeve combination 200A can have one or more vents 233 thatallow the movement of air to pass to or from the descent controller (notillustrated). The shapes and/or sizes of the vents can be of any numberof configurations, shapes, or designs. For example, ovals areillustrated, but could be replaced with circles, squares, rectangles,triangles, or other polygon shape. Similarly, there can be any number ofthe one or more vents 233 for the multi-sleeve combination 200A. In atleast one example, there can be four columns of vents, with each havingat least three vents, for a total of at least 12 vents. While in otherexamples, there may be as few as three vents, or as many as may bedesirable.

The one or more vents 233 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 235. The separation support(s) 235 can allow for the one ormore vents 233 to have various shapes and/or configurations. In someexamples, the separation supports 235 may have varying thicknesses toallow for reduced weight of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. Yet, inother examples, the separation supports 235 can have various widths toprovide support between two or more vents 233. In at least oneembodiment, the separation supports 235 may also allow for the verticalseparation of one or more vents 233 along the sidewall surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 200A.

The top 253 of the vented sleeve 230, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 251 that allows a rope or other deploymentdevice to pass through the vented sleeve 230 to the descent controller.The top 253 of the vented sleeve 230, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 233are placed. In other examples, the top 253 can have a concave or convexsurface configuration that allows for the configuration of variousshapes and/or design specifications. For example, a convex top may allowfor the multi-sleeve combination 200A to fit within a mechanism for ropedeployments.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200A caninclude an extending peripheral notch 272 that allows for ropes or otherdeployment devices to pass through the vented sleeve 230 and/or othersleeves of the multi-sleeve combination. Similarly, the multi-sleevecombination 200A may also have an outer sleeve 280. In at least oneexample, the outer sleeve 280 is pliable and manufactured utilizing arubber-based material composition. The outer sleeve 280 may beconfigured to match the openings, apertures, and/or vents of themulti-sleeve combination 200A.

FIG. 14B is a side view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 200Bfor a descent controller. In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleevecombination 200B can include an inner or protective sleeve 241, a ventedsleeve or middle sleeve 230, and an outer sleeve 280. The inner sleeve241, in at least one example, is manufactured, formed, and/orconstructed from a metallic-based material. Examples of a metallic-basedmaterial can include aluminum, steel, titanium, and/or combinations orcompositions thereof. The vented sleeve 230 can be manufactured as anon-pliable plastic-based material. Some examples of a non-pliableplastic- or composite-based material are acrylonitrile butadiene styrene(ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), and/or nylon. It would be understood thatother materials of similar or like compositions may be substitutedand/or added to the composition without departing from the spirit of thepresent disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners or othermaterials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial. In at least one example, the outer sleeve 280 is pliable andmanufactured utilizing a rubber-based material composition.

Each of the sleeves 241, 230, and/or 280 can have a set of aperturesand/or openings that allow for the passage of air from outside of themulti-sleeve combination 200B into a central area where a descentcontroller (not illustrated) is received within the multi-sleevecombination 200B. In at least one embodiment, each of the sleeves 230,241, and/or 280 have the same openings, apertures, and/or other voids.These openings can be aligned with vents 233A, 233B, 233C, 233F, 233G,233H, and/or 233I (collectively vents 233).

The vents 233, can be separated by separation support(s) 235A, 235B,235C, 235D, 235E, 235F, and/or 235G (collectively separation supports235). These separation supports 235 may include vertical and horizontalsupport for the vents 233. In at least one examples, separation supports235A, 235B, 235C, and/or 235D may be utilized as vertical separationsupports, while separation supports 235E, 235F, and/or 235G can beutilized as horizontal separation supports. In some examples, theseparation supports 235 in a horizontal configuration may be designed tobe at least as wide or wider than the vents 233 that are adjacent to theseparation supports 235. Additionally, in at least one example, theseparation supports 235 in a vertical configuration can be designed tobe the same or smaller in width than the vents 233 they are adjacent to.

The vents 233 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 200B. For example, vent 233H maybe greater in length than vents 233A, 233B, and/or 233I. In otherexamples, vent 233A may be longer than vents 233B and/or 233F, to allowfor increased air flow because of the at least one button aperture(shown in FIG. 14A as the at least one button aperture 231). Similarly,because of the at least one button aperture, vents 233A, 233B, 233F,and/or 233G may be shorter in length to allow for the size of the atleast one button aperture.

The multi-sleeve combination 200B may have an advertisement or labelsurface 282. The advertisement or label surface 282 may allow forprinted materials to be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 230 orinner sleeve 241. In other examples, an advertisement or label would beadded during manufacturing to the advertising or label surface 282. Theouter sleeve 280 would have an opening to allow for the advertising orlabel surface 282 to be seen.

FIG. 14C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 200Cfor a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combination 200C is utilizedwith a descent controller (not illustrated) to provide a buffer betweenthe rope movements and descent controller, and a user's hand or otherbody parts. One part of the buffer is to prevent a user from burningtheir hands, arms, or other body parts due to friction and/or ropemovements through and/or around a descent controller. In order toprevent heat from reaching a user's hands, sleeves should be utilizedaround the descent controller.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200C caninclude a middle or vented sleeve 230 and an outer sleeve 280. Both thevented sleeve 230 and the outer sleeve 280 can have vents 233A, 233B,233C, 233D, and/or 233E (collectively vents 233) through them thatallows for additional air flow to and/or through the descent controller.The vents 233 can be sized and/or shaped to allow for air flow and/orcooling to be maximized for the particular deployment use cases. Forexample, a long rope deployment, e.g., longer than 600 feet, the vents233 may need to be larger to allow for increased airflow, which may leadthe vented sleeve 230 to be constructed with materials that are strongereven with less material being utilized to form or manufacturer thevented sleeve 230. In these examples, the separation supports 235E,235F, 235G, and/or 235H (collectively separation supports 235) may besmaller than for multi-sleeve combination 200C utilized for shorter ropeor other deployments. In other examples, the separation supports 235 maybe sized and/or configured to maximize support while minimizing weightof the multi-sleeve combination 200C. For example, the material utilizedto construct the vented sleeve 230 may include plastic based materials,but with the creation of new materials that include strengtheners suchas metals, carbon fiber, and/or other materials that allow for lightweight and significant strength even with subjected to significant heat.

The vented sleeve 230 can also allow for an at least one button aperture231 that allows for user engagement or interactivity with the descentcontroller. The at least one button aperture 231 can allow for a buttonor other engagement mechanism that is smaller than the diameter of theaperture opening to pass through or allow a user's finger or other limbto pass through and engage with the descent controller. The at least onebutton aperture 231, can have an aperture surface 286 that allow for aslope or other surface characteristics that allow a user to more easilyengage with the descent controller. From the outer edge 288 to the atleast one button aperture 231, the aperture surface 286 can beinterfaced between these two points and/or edges. In some examples theouter edge may have a lip or other depression along the surface of theside wall of the vented sleeve 230. In at least one example, the outersleeve 280 may have a corresponding opening or aperture that is sizedequal to or greater than the diameter of the outer edge 288.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 230 can also have alabeling surface 284 that allows for a manufacturer or other logos ordesigns to be placed and seen by users. Similarly, there may also be anadvertising surface 282 that allows for advertisements or otherinformation to be placed or provided to a user. These surfaces 282 and284 may be visible through the outer sleeve 280, or the outer sleeve 280may have additional apertures or openings that allow for the surfaces282 and 284 to be visible to a user. The inner sleeve (not shown),vented sleeve 230, and/or outer sleeve 280 may be coupled togetherthrough the use of a securing pin that can pass through the securingaperture 255. The securing pin can be utilized to ensure the varioussleeves do not shift between the preferred positions during use,storage, and/or travel. If the sleeves shift for any reason the air flowto and/or around the descent controller can be restricted and result inoverheating.

FIG. 14D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 200Dfor a descent controller. The top view of the multi-sleeve combination200D shows the rope aperture 251, through which the rope can be insertedthrough the various sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 200D, and inparticular, creates an aperture in the top 253 of the vented sleeve 230.The rope aperture 251 can include an aperture lip or edge 290 having abeveled and/or rounded edge to prevent damage and minimize wear of therope as it slides along the edge 290. The vented sleeve lip 272 can berounded and/or beveled to prevent a user from gripping a sharp orcontoured edge during use, storage, or travel. The outer sleeve 280 canbe seen as a wrapping that goes around the entire vented sleeve 230. Insome examples, the outer sleeve 280 may only partially enclose thevented sleeve 230, for example being present for 90, 180, and/or 270degrees of the vented sleeve's circumference.

FIG. 14E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination200E for a descent controller. The bottom view illustration of themulti-sleeve combination 200E shows the inner sleeve 241, the ventedsleeve 230, and/or outer sleeve 280. The vented sleeve 230, in at leastone embodiment, is the thickest of the three sleeves illustrated. In atleast one example, the vented sleeve 230 may have a sleeve lip 294 canbe rounded or beveled to prevent harm to a user or damage to a ropeduring deployment. The rope aperture 251 can pass through the top 253 ofthe vented sleeve 230. The side wall of the vented sleeve 230 caninclude an extending peripheral notch 272 that allows for ropes, and/orother deployment components to be provided into the area surrounded bythe multi-sleeve combination 200E.

FIG. 14F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination200F for a descent controller. The cut-away view of the multi-sleevecombination 200F shows the positioning and linking of the multi-sleevecombination 200F. In particular, the inner sleeve 241 interfaces withthe vented sleeve 230. In at least one example, there can be an air gapbetween the inner sleeve 241 and the vented sleeve 230.

The inner sleeve 241 can have openings that correspond to the openings233 through the vented sleeve 230. Additionally, in at least oneexample, the inner sleeve may have additional openings that allow forheat to transfer from the descent controller to the vented sleeve 230.For example, the vented sleeve 230 and/or inner sleeve 241 may bemanufactured from a material that is capable of absorbing and/ortransferring heat away from one surface to another. Another example ofheat transfer points could be the two surfaces 282 and 284 that can alsobe utilized for labeling, advertising, and/or logos. These surfaces canbe made with a depth that allows for specific heat transfercharacteristics. The rope aperture 251 along the top 253 of the ventedsleeve 230 allows for ropes or other devices or mechanisms to passthrough. It should be noted that while the inner sleeve 241 is shownwithout a top, it could have one as part of the design if chosen withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200F caninclude a peripheral notch 272 that allows for ropes or other deploymentdevices to pass through the vented sleeve 230 and/or other sleeves ofthe multi-sleeve combination. Similarly, the multi-sleeve combination200F may also have an outer sleeve 280. In at least one example, theouter sleeve 280 is pliable and manufactured utilizing a rubber-basedmaterial composition. The outer sleeve 280 may be configured to matchthe openings, apertures, and/or vents of the multi-sleeve combination200F.

FIG. 15A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination 200A for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combinationcan include a vented sleeve 230, which in at least one embodiment, canbe referenced as a middle or intermediate sleeve 230. The vented sleeve230 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic-based material. Someexamples of a non-pliable plastic or composite based material areacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), and/ornylon. It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions may be substituted and/or added to the composition withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additives mayinclude strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportive orthermal structure of the material. For example, the inner sleeve 241 mayhave a thermal property that causes heat to transfer to a thermallyconductive plastic of the vented sleeve 230, which can then be thermallyconductive to the outer sleeve 280, which has a rubber base formanufacturing. The rubber-based material may include silicone or othersimilar materials.

The vented sleeve 230 can include at least one button aperture 231 toallow for a user to access a portion of a descent controller (notillustrated). The at least one button aperture 231 can include anaperture passing through one or more sleeves of the multi-sleevecombination 200A. In at least one example, the at least one buttonaperture 231 may have an engagement surface that allows for a concavedesign from the outer surface to the inner surface of one or more of thesleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. The concave design mayalso include an oval or circular design on the outer surface, and asmaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one or moresleeves of the multi-sleeve design. The at least one button aperture231, can have an aperture surface 286 that is sloped or can have othersurface characteristics that allow a user to more easily engage with thedescent controller. From the outer edge 288 to the at least one buttonaperture 231, the aperture surface 286 can be interfaced between thesetwo points and/or edges. In some examples the outer edge 288 may have alip or other depression along the surface of the side wall of the ventedsleeve 230. In at least one example, the outer sleeve 280 may have acorresponding opening or aperture that is sized equal to or greater thanthe diameter of the outer edge 288.

The multi-sleeve combination 200A can have one or more vents 233 thatallow for air to pass to or from the descent controller (notillustrated). The shapes and/or sizes of the vents can be of any numberof configurations, shapes, or designs. For example, ovals areillustrated, however, circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, or otherpolygon shape as viewed from a side view of the multi-sleeve combination200A. Similarly, there can be any number of the one or more vents 233for the multi-sleeve combination 200A. In at least one example, therecan be four columns of vents, with each having at least three vents, fora total of at least 12 vents. In other examples, there may be as few asthree vents or as many as desired but no more than 200 vents. Theseopenings can be aligned with vents 233A, 233B, and/or 233C (collectivelyvents 233).

The vents 233 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. For example, vent 233C maybe greater in length than vents 233A, and/or 233B. Similarly, because ofthe at least one button aperture, vents 233A, and/or 233B may be shorterin length to allow for the size of the at least one button aperture. Themulti-sleeve combination 200A may have an advertisement or label surface282. The advertisement or label surface 282 may allow for printedmaterials to be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 230 or innersleeve 241. In other examples, an advertisement or label can be addedduring manufacturing to the advertising or label surface 282. The outersleeve 280 can have an opening over the advertising or label surface282.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 230 can also have alabeling surface 284 that allows for logos or designs to be placed onthe sleeve. Similarly, there may also be an advertising surface 282 thatallows for advertisements or other information to be placed or providedto a user. These surfaces 282 and 284 may be visible through the outersleeve 280, or the outer sleeve 280 may have additional apertures oropenings over the surfaces 282 and 284. The inner sleeve (not shown),vented sleeve 230, and/or outer sleeve 280 may be coupled togetherthrough the use of a securing pin that can pass through the securingaperture 255. The securing pin can be utilized to ensure the varioussleeves do not shift between the preferred positions during use,storage, and/or travel. If the sleeves shift for any reason, the airflow to and/or around the descent controller can be restricted andresult in overheating.

The one or more vents 233 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 235. The separation support(s) 235 can allow for the one ormore vents 233 to have various shapes and/or configurations. In someexamples, the separation supports 235 may have varying thicknesses toallow for reduced weight of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. Yet, inother examples, the separation supports 235 can have various widths toprovide support between two or more vents 233. In at least oneembodiment, the separation supports 235 may also allow for the verticalseparation of one or more vents 233 along the sidewall surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 200A.

In at least one example, there may also be partial separation support(s)237. The partial separation support(s) 237 can have a depth that is lessthan the separation support 235. In at least one embodiment, the partialseparation support(s) 237 is at least one half the depth of theseparation support 235, but no more than two-thirds the depth of theseparation support 235.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200A caninclude a peripheral notch 272 that allows for ropes or other deploymentdevices to pass through the vented sleeve 230 and/or other sleeves ofthe multi-sleeve combination. Similarly, the multi-sleeve combination200A may also have an outer sleeve 280. In at least one example, theouter sleeve 280 is pliable and manufactured utilized a rubber-basedmaterial composition. The outer sleeve 280 may be configured to matchthe openings, apertures, and/or vents of the multi-sleeve combination200A.

FIG. 15B is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 200Bfor a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combination 200B is utilizedwith a descent controller (not illustrated) to provide a buffer betweenthe rope movements, descent controller, and a user's hand or other bodyparts. One function of the buffer is to prevent burns to a user's skinfrom heat generated by friction associated with use of the descentcontroller. As a user descends using a descent controller, the frictioncaused by the rope traveling against itself or other materials cangenerate heat, and this heat can then be transferred to the sleevesand/or escape through the sleeves. The sleeves disclosed herein areutilized to help prevent excessive heat from reaching a user's hands.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200B caninclude a middle or vented sleeve 230 and an outer sleeve 280. Both thevented sleeve 230 and the outer sleeve 280 can have vents 233A, 233B,233C, 233D, and/or 233E (collectively vents 233) through them that allowfor additional air flow to and/or through the descent controller. Thevents 233 can be sized and/or shaped to allow for air flow and/orcooling to be maximized for the particular deployment use cases. Forexample, a long rope deployment, e.g., 600 feet, the vents 233 may needto be larger to allow for increased airflow, which may necessitateconstruction with materials that are stronger to allow larger vents inthe vented sleeve 230. Using stronger materials, the multi-sleevecombination 200B can include separation supports 235E, 235F, and/or 235G(collectively separation supports 235) that may be made smaller. Inother examples, the separation supports 235 may be sized and/orconfigured to maximize support while minimizing weight of themulti-sleeve combination 200B. For example, the material utilized toconstruct the vented sleeve 230 may include plastic based materials, butcan also include strengtheners such as metals, carbon fiber, and/orother materials to allow for a high strength to weight ratio even whensubjected to significant heat. In at least one example, there may alsobe partial separation support(s) 237. The partial separation support(s)237 can have a depth that is less than the separation support 235. In atleast one embodiment, the partial separation support(s) 237 is at leastone half the depth of the separation support 235, but no more thantwo-thirds the depth of the separation support 235.

The vented sleeve 230 can also have at least one button aperture 231 toallow access through the sleeve to a control mechanism on the descentcontroller. The at least one button aperture 231 can house a button orother engagement mechanism so the user can control the descentcontroller while the descent controller is housed in the vented sleeve.The at least one button aperture 231, can have an aperture surface 286with a slope or other surface characteristics that allow a user to moreeasily engage with the descent controller. From the outer edge 288, tothe at least one button aperture 231, the aperture surface 286 can beinterfaced between these two points and/or edges. In some examples theouter edge 288 may have a lip or other depression along the surface ofthe side wall of the vented sleeve 230. In at least one example, theouter sleeve 280 may have a corresponding opening or aperture that issized equal to or greater than the diameter of the outer edge 288.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 230 can also have alabeling surface 284 that allows for placement of logos or designs.Similarly, there may also be an advertising surface 282 foradvertisements or other information to be placed or provided to a user.These surfaces 282 and 284 may be visible through the outer sleeve 280,or the outer sleeve 280 may have additional apertures or openings overthe surfaces 282 and 284. The inner sleeve (not shown), vented sleeve230, and/or outer sleeve 280 may be coupled together through the use ofa securing pin that can pass through the securing aperture 255. Thesecuring pin can be utilized to ensure the various sleeves do not shiftbetween the preferred positions during use, storage, and/or travel. Thesleeves can be secured together by other means as well, such as adhesiveand/or spot welding depending on the materials. If the sleeves shift forany reason, the air flow to and/or around the descent controller can berestricted and result in overheating.

FIG. 15C is a side-view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 200Cfor a descent controller. In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleevecombination 200C can include an inner or protective sleeve 241, a ventedsleeve or middle sleeve 230, and an outer sleeve 280. The inner sleeve241, in at least one example, is manufactured, formed, and/orconstructed from a metallic based material. Examples of a metallic basedmaterial can include aluminum, steel, titanium, and/or combinations orcompositions thereof. The vented sleeve 230 can be manufactured as anon-pliable plastic-based material. Some examples of a non-pliableplastic or composite based material can be acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon. It would be understoodthat other materials of similar or like compositions, may besubstituted, and/or added to the composition without departing from thespirit of the present disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners orother materials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial. In at least one example, the outer sleeve 280 is pliable andmanufactured utilizing a rubber-based material composition.

Each of the sleeves 241, 230, and/or 280 can have a set of aperturesand/or openings that allow for the passage of air from outside of themulti-sleeve combination 200C into a central area where a descentcontroller (not illustrated) is received within the multi-sleevecombination 200C. In at least one embodiment, each of the sleeves 230,241, and/or 280 have the same openings, apertures, and/or other voids.These openings can be aligned with vents 233A, 233B, 233C, 233F, 233G,233H, and/or 233I (collectively vents 233).

The vents 233, can be separated by separation support(s) 235A, 235B,235C, 235D, 235E, and/or 235F (collectively separation supports 235).These separation supports 235 may include vertical and horizontalsupport for the vents 233. In at least one example, separation supports235A, 235B, and/or 235C may be utilized as vertical separation supports,while separation supports 235D, 235E, and/or 235F can be utilized ashorizontal separation supports. In some examples, the separationsupports 235 in a horizontal configuration may be designed to be atleast as wide or wider than the vents 233 that are adjacent to theseparation supports 235. Additionally, in at least one example, theseparation supports 235 in a vertical configuration can be designed tobe the same or smaller in width than the vents 233 they are adjacent to.

The vents 233 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 200C. For example, vent 233H maybe greater in length than vents 233A, 233B, and/or 233I. In otherexamples, vent 233A may be longer than vents 233B and/or 233F, allow forincreased air flow because of the at least one button aperture (shown inFIG. 14A as the at least one button aperture 231). Similarly, because ofthe at least one button aperture, vents 233A, 233B, 233F, and/or 233Gmay be shorter in length to allow for the size of the at least onebutton aperture.

The multi-sleeve combination 200C may have an advertisement or labelsurface 282. The advertisement or label surface 282 may allow forprinted materials to be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 230 orinner sleeve 241. In other examples, an advertisement or label can beadded during manufacturing to the advertising or label surface 282. Theouter sleeve 280 can have an opening over the advertising or labelsurface 282. In at least one example, there may also be partialseparation support(s) 237A, 237B, 237C, and/or 237D (collectivelypartial separation support(s) 237). The partial separation support(s)237 can have a depth that is less than the separation support 235. In atleast one embodiment, the partial separation support(s) 237 is at leastone half the depth of the separation support 235, but no more thantwo-thirds the depth of the separation support 235. The rope aperture251 can pass through the top 253 of the vented sleeve 230. The side wallof the vented sleeve 230 can include a peripheral notch (not pictured)that allows for ropes, and/or other deployment components to be providedinto the area surrounded by the multi-sleeve combination 200C.

FIG. 15D is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination200D for a descent controller. The bottom view illustration of themulti-sleeve combination 200D shows the inner sleeve 241, the ventedsleeve 230, and/or outer sleeve 280. The vented sleeve 230 in at leastone embodiment, is the thickest of the three sleeves illustrated. Therope aperture 251 can pass through the top 253 of the vented sleeve 230.The side wall of the vented sleeve 230 can include a peripheral notch272 that allows for ropes, and/or other deployment components to passinto the area surrounded by the multi-sleeve combination 200D.

FIG. 15E is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination 200E for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combinationcan include a vented sleeve 230, which in at least one embodiment, canbe referenced as a middle or intermediate sleeve 230. The vented sleeve230 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic-based material. Someexamples of a non-pliable plastic or composite based material can beacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon.It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions may be substituted and/or added to the composition withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additives mayinclude strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportive orthermal structure of the material.

The vented sleeve 230 can include at least one button aperture 231 toallow for a user to access a portion of a descent controller (notillustrated). The at least one button aperture 231 can include anaperture passing through one or more sleeves of the multi-sleevecombination 200E. In at least one example, the at least one buttonaperture 231 may have an engagement surface having a concave design fromthe outer surface to the inner surface of one or more of the sleeves ofthe multi-sleeve combination 200E. The concave design may also includean oval or circular design on the outer surface and a smaller oval orcircular design on the inner surface of one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve design. The at least one button aperture 231 can have anaperture surface 286 having a slope or other surface characteristicsthat allow a user to more easily engage with the descent controller.From the outer edge 288 to the at least one button aperture 231, theaperture surface 286 can be interfaced between these two points and/oredges. In some examples the outer edge 288 may have a lip or otherdepression along the surface of the side wall of the vented sleeve 230.In at least one example, the outer sleeve 280 may have a correspondingopening or aperture that is sized equal to or greater than the diameterof the outer edge 288.

The multi-sleeve combination 200E can have one or more vents 233A, 233B,and/or 233C (collectively vents 233) that allow for air to pass to orfrom the descent controller (not illustrated). The shapes and/or sizesof the vents can be of any number of configurations, shapes, or designs.For example, ovals are illustrated, however, circles, squares,rectangles, triangles, or other polygon shapes as viewed from a sideview of the multi-sleeve combination 200E can be utilized. Similarly,there can be any number of the one or more vents 233 for themulti-sleeve combination 200E. In at least one example, there can befour columns of vents, with each having at least three vents, for atotal of at least 12 vents. In other examples, there may be as few asthree vents, or as many as desired but no more than 200 vents. Theseopenings can be aligned with vents 233.

The vents 233 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. For example, vent 233C maybe greater in length than vents 233A, and/or 233B. Similarly, because ofthe at least one button aperture, vents 233A, and/or 233B may be shorterin length to allow for the size of the at least one button aperture. Themulti-sleeve combination 200A may have an advertisement or label surface282. The advertisement or label surface 282 may allow for printedmaterials to be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 230 or innersleeve 241. While in other examples, an advertisement or label can beadded during manufacturing to the advertising or label surface 282. Theouter sleeve 280 can have an opening over the advertising or labelsurface 282.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 230 can also have alabeling surface 284 that for logos or designs. Similarly, there mayalso be an advertising surface 282 that allows for advertisements orother information to be placed or provided to a user. These surfaces 282and 284 may be visible through the outer sleeve 280, or the outer sleeve280 may have additional apertures or openings over the surfaces 282 and284. The inner sleeve 241, vented sleeve 230, and/or outer sleeve 280may be coupled together through the use of a securing pin that can passthrough the securing aperture 255. The securing pin can be utilized toensure the various sleeves do not shift between the preferred positionsduring use, storage, and/or travel. If the sleeves shift for any reason,the air flow to and/or around the descent controller can be restrictedand result in overheating.

The one or more vents 233 can be supported by one or more separationsupports 235A, 235B, and/or 235C (collectively separation supports 235).The separation support(s) 235 can be configured such that the one ormore vents 233 can have various shapes and/or sizes. In some examples,the separation supports 235 may have varying thicknesses to allow forreduced weight of the multi-sleeve combination 200A. Yet, in otherexamples, the separation supports 235 can have various widths to providesupport between two or more vents 233. In at least one embodiment, theseparation supports 235 may also allow for the horizontal separation ofone or more vents 233 along the sidewall surface of one or more sleevesof the multi-sleeve combination 200E. In at least one example, there mayalso be partial separation support(s) 237. The partial separationsupport(s) 237 can have a depth that is less than the separation support235. In at least one embodiment, the partial separation support(s) 237is at least one half the depth of the separation support 235, but nomore than two-thirds the depth of the separation support 235.

The top 253 of the vented sleeve 230, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 251 that allows a rope or other deploymentdevice to pass through the vented sleeve 230 to the descent controller.The top 253 of the vented sleeve 230, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 233are placed. In other examples, the top 253 can have a concave or convexsurface configuration that allows for the configuration of variousshapes and/or design specifications. For example, a convex top may allowfor the multi-sleeve combination 200A to fit within a mechanism for ropedeployments. The rope aperture 251 can include an aperture lip or edge290 that can allow for a beveled and/or rounded edge that would not frayor damage the rope if it came in contact with the edge 290. The ventedsleeve lip 292 can allow for a rounded and/or beveled edge to prevent auser from gripping a sharp or contoured edge during use, storage, ortravel. The outer sleeve 280 can be configured as a wrapping that goesaround the entire vented sleeve 230. In some examples, the outer sleeve280 may only partially enclose the vented sleeve 230, for example beingpresent for 90, 180, and/or 270 degrees of the vented sleeve'scircumference.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 200E caninclude a peripheral notch 272 that allows for ropes or other deploymentdevices to pass through the vented sleeve 230 and/or other sleeves ofthe multi-sleeve combination. Similarly, the multi-sleeve combination200E may also have an outer sleeve 280. In at least one example, theouter sleeve 280 is pliable and manufactured using a rubber basedmaterial composition. The outer sleeve 280 may be configured to matchthe openings, apertures, and/or vents of the multi-sleeve combination200E. The inner sleeve (not shown), vented sleeve 230, and/or outersleeve 280 may be coupled together through the use of a securing pinthat can pass through the securing aperture 255. The securing pin can beutilized to ensure the various sleeves do not shift between thepreferred positions during use, storage, and/or travel. If the sleevesshift for any reason, the air flow to and/or around the descentcontroller can be restricted and result in overheating.

FIG. 15F is a separated view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination200F for a descent controller. The inner sleeve 241, vented sleeve 230,and outer sleeve 280 are shown together with the various apertures asdescribed with reference to FIGS. 15A-15E above.

FIGS. 16A-17B are illustrations of vented sleeves formed withoutadditional outer or inner sleeves. For example, to reduce weight forusers, a vented sleeve with a set of offset bridges formed along theinner circumference of the vented sleeve can be utilized with the offsetbridges acting as the heat sink portions. The set of offset bridges maybe formed to align and/or correspond with different desired heatreduction requirements in mind. In at least one example, the set ofoffsets may include two offset bridges, which can allow for a specificamount of heat to be dissipated from the descender device. In otherexamples there may be three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or moreoffset bridges. The number of bridges may be configured for use withdifferent environments. For example, a descender device manufactured forSouth America may have more offset bridges than one that is manufacturedfor use in Alaska. These offset bridges may interact or engage withdesignated portions of the descender device.

Alternatively, the number of contact points with the descender deviceallows for additional amounts of specific heat to be drawn away from thedescender device and into the vented sleeve. The offset bridges can alsocreate an offset space that provides additional airflow in, around, andthrough the descender device. This can result in a reduction in the heatbuild-up in and around the descender device. For example, the offsetbridges can be defined as extending from the inner circumferentialsurface of the vented sleeve in any amount of space between thedescender device and the inner sleeve that is substantial enough to bemeasured, and would not exceed an amount that is equal to the amount ofdistance between the inner circumference of the vented sleeve to theouter circumference of the vented sleeve (for clarity, the offsetbridges can be the same width as the circumferential wall or less). Inother examples, the offset bridges can be greater in size than thecircumferential wall but would likely include additional offset bridgesto provide increased stability.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view illustration of a single-sleeve 300A fora descent controller. The single-sleeve 300A can include a vented sleeve330, which in at least one embodiment, can be referenced as a middle orintermediate sleeve 330. The vented sleeve 330 can be manufactured as anon-pliable plastic-based material. Some examples of a non-pliableplastic or composite based material can be acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon. It would be understoodthat other materials of similar or like compositions may be substitutedand/or added to the composition without departing from the spirit of thepresent disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners or othermaterials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial.

The vented sleeve 330 can include at least one button aperture 331 toallow for a user (not illustrated) to access a portion of a descentcontroller (not illustrated). The at least one button aperture 331 caninclude an aperture passing through one or more sleeves of thesingle-sleeve 300A. In at least one example, the at least one buttonaperture 331 may have an engagement surface having a concave design fromthe outer surface to the inner surface of one or more of the sleeves ofthe single-sleeve 300A. The concave design may also include an oval orcircular design on the outer surface, and a smaller oval or circulardesign on the inner surface of one or more sleeves of the multi-sleevedesign.

The single-sleeve 300A can allow for one or more vents 333 that allowfor air, or the movement of air to pass to or from the descentcontroller (not illustrated). The shapes and/or sizes of the vents canbe of any number of configurations, shapes, or designs. For example,ovals are illustrated as viewed from a side view of the single-sleeve300A, but circles, squares, rectangles, triangles, or other polygonshape may be used. Similarly, there can be any number of the one or morevents 333 for the single-sleeve 300A. In at least one example, there canbe four columns of vents, with each having at least three vents, for atotal of at least 12 vents. While in other examples, there may be as fewas three vents, or as many as desired but no more than 200 vents.

The one or more vents 333 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 335. The separation support(s) 335 can allow for the one ormore vents 333 to have various shapes and/or configurations. In someexamples, the separation supports 335 may have varying thicknesses toallow for reduced weight of the single-sleeve 300A. Yet, in otherexamples, the separation supports 335 can have various widths to providesupport between two or more vents 333. In at least one embodiment, theseparation supports 335 may also allow for the vertical separation ofone or more vents 333 along the sidewall surface of one or more sleevesof the single-sleeve 300A.

The top 353 of the vented sleeve 330, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 351 that allows a rope or other deploymentdevice to pass through the vented sleeve 330 to the descent controller.The top 353 of the vented sleeve 330, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 333are placed. In other examples, the top 353 can have a concave or convexsurface configuration that allows for the configuration of variousshapes and/or design specifications. For example, a convex top may allowfor the single-sleeve 300A to fit within a mechanism for ropedeployments. In at least one embodiment, the single-sleeve 300A caninclude an extending peripheral notch 372 that allows for ropes or otherdeployment devices to pass through the vented sleeve 330 and/or othersleeves if utilized.

FIG. 16B is a side view illustration of a single-sleeve 300B for adescent controller. In at least one embodiment, the single-sleeve 300Bcan include a vented sleeve or middle sleeve 330. The vented sleeve 330can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic based material. Someexamples of a non-pliable plastic or composite based material can beacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon.It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions may be substituted and/or added to the composition withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additives mayinclude strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportive orthermal structure of the material.

The vented sleeve 330 can have a set of apertures and/or openings thatallow for the passage of air from outside of the single-sleeve 300B intoa central area where a descent controller (not illustrated) is receivedwithin the single-sleeve 300B. These openings can be aligned with vents333A, 333B, 333C, 333F, 333G, 333H, and/or 333I (collectively vents333).

The vents 333, can be separated by separation support(s) 335A, 335B,335C, 335D, 335E, 335F, and/or 335G (collectively separation supports335). These separation supports 335 may include vertical and horizontalsupport for the vents 333. In at least one examples, separation supports335A, 335B, 335C, and/or 335D may be utilized as vertical separationsupports, while separation supports 335E, 335F, and/or 335G can beutilized as horizontal separation supports. In some examples, theseparation supports 335 in a horizontal configuration may be designed tobe at least as wide or wider than the vents 333 that are adjacent to theseparation supports 335. Additionally, in at least one example, theseparation supports 335 in a vertical configuration can be designed tobe the same or smaller in width than the vents 333 they are adjacent to.

The vents 333 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 300B. For example, vent 333H maybe greater in length than vents 333A, 333B, and/or 333I. In otherexamples, vent 333A may be longer than vents 333B and/or 333F, to allowfor increased air flow because of the at least one button aperture(shown in FIG. 16A as the at least one button aperture 331). Similarly,because of the at least one button aperture, vents 333A, 333B, 333F,and/or 333G may be shorter in length to allow for the size of the atleast one button aperture.

The single-sleeve 300B may have an advertisement or label surface 382.The advertisement or label surface 382 may allow for printed materialsto be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 330. While in otherexamples, an advertisement or label would be added during manufacturingto the advertising or label surface 382.

FIG. 16C is a front view illustration of a single-sleeve 300C for adescent controller. The single-sleeve 300C is utilized with a descentcontroller (not illustrated) to provide a buffer between the ropemovements and descent controller, and a user's hand or other body parts.One part of the buffer is to prevent a user from burning their hands,arms, or other body parts due to friction and/or rope movements throughand/or around a descent controller. In order to prevent heat fromreaching a user's hands, sleeves should be utilized around the descentcontroller.

In at least one embodiment, the single-sleeve 300C can include a ventedsleeve 330. The vented sleeve 330 can have vents 333A, 333B, 333C, 333D,and/or 333E (collectively vents 333) through them that allows foradditional air flow to and/or through the descent controller. The vents333 can be sized and/or shaped to allow for air flow and/or cooling tobe maximized for the particular deployment use cases. For example, for along rope deployment, e.g., longer than 600 feet, the vents 333 may needto be larger to allow for increased airflow, which may lead the ventedsleeve 330 to be constructed with materials that are stronger even withless material being utilized to form or manufacture the vented sleeve330. In these examples, the separation supports 335E, 335F, and/or 335G(collectively separation supports 335) may be smaller than forsingle-sleeve 300C utilized for shorter rope or other deployments. Inother examples, the separation supports 335 may be sized and/orconfigured to maximize support while minimizing weight of thesingle-sleeve 300C. For example, the material utilized to construct thevented sleeve 330 may include plastic based materials, but with thecreation of new materials that include strengtheners such as metals,carbon fiber, and/or other materials that allow for light weight andsignificant strength even with subjected to significant heat.

The vented sleeve 330 can also allow for an at least one button aperture331 that allows for user engagement or interactivity with the descentcontroller. The at least one button aperture 331 can allow for a buttonor other engagement mechanism that is smaller than the diameter of theaperture opening to pass through or allow a user's finger or other limbto pass through and engage with the descent controller. The at least onebutton aperture 331, can have an aperture surface 386 that allow for aslope or other surface characteristics that allow a user to more easilyengage with the descent controller.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 330 may have anadvertising surface 382 for advertisements or other information to beplaced or provided to a user. The vented sleeve 330, and/or othersleeves may be coupled together through the use of a securing pin, thatcan pass through a securing aperture 355. The securing pin can beutilized to ensure the various sleeves do not shift between thepreferred positions during use, storage, and/or travel. If the sleevesshift for any reason, the air flow to and/or around the descentcontroller can be restricted and result in overheating.

FIG. 16D is a top view illustration of a single-sleeve 300D for adescent controller. The top view of the single-sleeve 300D shows therope aperture 351, and how it passes through the top 353 of the ventedsleeve 330. The rope aperture 351 can include an aperture lip or edge390 with a beveled and/or rounded edge that would not fray or damage therope if it came in contact with the edge 390. The vented sleeve lip 392can have a rounded and/or beveled edge to prevent a user from gripping asharp or contoured edge during use, storage, or travel.

FIG. 16E is a bottom view illustration of a single-sleeve 300E for adescent controller. The bottom view illustration of the single-sleeve300E shows the vented sleeve 330, and the offset bridges 398A, 398B,398C and/or 398D (collectively offset bridges 398). For example, toreduce weight for users a vented sleeve with a set of offset bridges 398formed along the inner circumference of the vented sleeve 330 can beutilized with the offset bridges 398 acting as the heat sink portions.The set of offset bridges 398 may be formed to align and/or correspondwith different desired heat reduction desirability's in mind. In atleast one example, the set of offsets 398 may include two offset bridges398, which can allow for a specific amount of heat to be dissipated fromthe descender device. In other examples there may be three, four, five,six, seven, eight, or more offset bridges. The number of bridges may beconfigured for use with different environments, for example a descenderdevice manufactured for South America may have more offset bridges thanone that is manufactured for use in Alaska. These offset bridges 398 mayinteract or engage with designated portions of the descender device.Alternatively, the number of contact points with the descender deviceallows for additional amounts of specific heat to be drawn away from thedescender device and into the vented sleeve. The offset bridges 398 canalso create an offset space that allows for additional airflow in,around, and through the descender device.

In at least one example, the vented sleeve 330 may have a sleeve lip 394that is rounded or beveled to prevent damage to a user or a rope duringdeployment. The rope aperture 351 can pass through the top 353 of thevented sleeve 330. The side wall of the vented sleeve 330 can include aperipheral notch 372 that allows for ropes, and/or other deploymentcomponents to be passed into the area surrounded by the single sleeve300E.

FIG. 16F is a cut-away view illustration of a single-sleeve 300F for adescent controller. The cut-away view of the single-sleeve 300F showsthe positioning of the offset bridges 398. The top 353 of the ventedsleeve 330, in at least one embodiment, can include a rope aperture 351for a rope or other deployment device to pass through the vented sleeve330 to the descent controller. The top 353 of the vented sleeve 330, inat least one example, can be perpendicular to the side walls throughwhich the one or more vents 333 are placed. In other examples, the top353 can have a concave or convex surface configuration that allows forthe configuration of various shapes and/or design specifications. Forexample, a convex top may allow for the single-sleeve 300F to fit withina mechanism for rope deployments. In at least one embodiment, thesingle-sleeve 300F can include a peripheral notch 372 for ropes or otherdeployment devices to pass through the vented sleeve 330 and/or othersleeves if utilized. The vented sleeve 330 can additionally have vents333, and an at least one button aperture 331. The vented sleeve 330 andthe offset bridge(s) 398 can allow for air flow towards the descentcontroller (not illustrated) as discussed above with reference to otherembodiments.

FIG. 17A is a side perspective view illustration of a sleeve 300A for adescent controller. The sleeve 300A can include a vented sleeve 330,which in at least one embodiment, can be referenced as a middle orintermediate sleeve 330. The vented sleeve 330 can be manufactured as anon-pliable plastic based material. Some examples of a non-pliableplastic or composite based material can be acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon. It would be understoodthat other materials of similar or like compositions may be substitutedand/or added to the composition without departing from the spirit of thepresent disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners or othermaterials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial.

The vented sleeve 330 can include at least one button aperture 331 toallow for a user to access a portion of a descent controller (notillustrated). The at least one button aperture 331 can include anaperture passing through one or more sleeves of the single-sleeve 300A.In at least one example, the at least one button aperture 331 may havean engagement surface that allows for a concave design from the outersurface to the inner surface of one or more of the sleeves of thesingle-sleeve 300A. The concave design may also include an oval orcircular design on the outer surface, and a smaller oval or circulardesign on the inner surface of one or more sleeves of the sleeve design.The at least one button aperture 331, can have an aperture surface 386having a slope or other surface characteristics that allow a user tomore easily engage with the descent controller.

The vented sleeve 330 can have vents 333A, 333B, 333C, 333D, and/or 333E(collectively vents 333) through them that allows for additional airflow to and/or through the descent controller. The vents 333 can besized and/or shaped to allow for air flow and/or cooling to be maximizedfor the particular deployment use cases as discussed above withreference to other embodiments. Furthermore, The vents 333 can haveseparation supports 335E, 335F, and/or 335G (collectively separationsupports 335) and one or more partial separation supports 337 asdiscussed above with reference to other embodiments.

The top 353 of the vented sleeve 330, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 351 that allows a rope or other deploymentdevice to pass through the vented sleeve 330 to the descent controller.The top 353 of the vented sleeve 330, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 333are placed. In at least one embodiment, the single-sleeve 300A caninclude an extending peripheral notch 372 that allows for ropes or otherdeployment devices to pass through the vented sleeve 330 and/or othersleeves of the sleeve combination.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 330 may have anadvertising surface 382. The vented sleeve 330, and/or other sleeves maybe coupled together through the use of a securing pin, that can passthrough the securing aperture 355.

FIG. 17B is a bottom perspective view illustration of a sleeve 300B fora descent controller. The sleeve 300B can include a vented sleeve 330,which in at least one embodiment, can be referenced as a middle orintermediate sleeve 330. The vented sleeve 330 can be manufactured as anon-pliable plastic-based material. Some examples of a non-pliableplastic or composite based material can be acrylonitrile butadienestyrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon. It would be understoodthat other materials of similar or like compositions may be substitutedand/or added to the composition without departing from the spirit of thepresent disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners or othermaterials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial.

The vented sleeve 330 can include at least one button aperture 331 toallow for a user to access a portion of a descent controller (notillustrated). In at least one example, the at least one button aperture331 may have an engagement surface with a concave design from the outersurface to the inner surface of the single-sleeve 300B. The concavedesign may also include an oval or circular design on the outer surface,and a smaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one ormore sleeves of the sleeve design. The at least one button aperture 331,can have an aperture surface 386 with a slope or other surfacecharacteristics that allow a user to more easily engage with the descentcontroller. From the outer edge 388 to the at least one button aperture331, the aperture surface 386 can be interfaced between these two pointsand/or edges. In some examples the outer edge may have a lip or otherdepression along the surface of the side wall of the vented sleeve 330.In at least one example, the outer sleeve 380 may have a correspondingopening or aperture that is sized equal to or greater than the diameterof the outer edge 388.

The sleeve 300B can allow for vents 333A, 333B, and/or 333C(collectively vents 333) that allow for air, or the movement of air topass to or from the descent controller. The shapes and/or sizes of thevents can be of any number of configurations, shapes, or designs asdiscussed above. The sleeve 300B can also include an advertisement orlabel surface 382, a labeling surface 384, and a securing aperture 355as discussed above.

The one or more vents 333 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 335. The separation support(s) 335 can allow for the one ormore vents 333 to have various shapes and/or configurations.

In at least one example, there may also be partial separation support(s)337. The partial separation support(s) 337 can have a depth that is lessthan the separation support 335. In at least one embodiment, the partialseparation support(s) 337 is at least one half the depth of theseparation support 335, but no more than two-thirds the depth of theseparation support 335. In at least one embodiment, the single-sleeve300B can include an extending peripheral notch 372 that allows for ropesor other deployment devices to pass through the vented sleeve 330 and/orother sleeves of the sleeve combination.

The perspective view illustration of the single-sleeve 300B shows thevented sleeve 330 and the offset bridges 398A, 398B, and/or 398C(collectively offset bridges 398). For example, to reduce weight forusers a vented sleeve with a set of offset bridges 398 formed along theinner circumference of the vented sleeve 330 can be utilized with theoffset bridges 398 acting as the heat sink portions. The set of offsetbridges 398 may be formed to align and/or correspond with differentdesired heat reduction desirability's in mind. In at least one example,the set of offsets 398 may include two offset bridges 398, which canallow for a specific amount of heat to be dissipated from the descenderdevice. In other examples there may be three, four, five, six, seven,eight, or more offset bridges. The number of bridges may be configuredfor use with different environments, for example a descender devicemanufactured for South America may have more offset bridges than onethat is manufactured for use in Alaska. These offset bridges 398 mayinteract or engage with designated portions of the descender device.Alternatively, the number of contact points with the descender deviceallows for additional amounts of specific heat to be drawn away from thedescender device and into the vented sleeve. The offset bridges 398 canalso create an offset space that allows for additional airflow in,around, and through the descender device.

FIGS. 18A-19 are an illustration of an inner sleeve and outer sleevehaving an air gap separation along portions of the inner circumferencesurface of the outer sleeve. The air gaps created during formation ormanufacturing provide increased air flow through the outer sleeve,and/or the vents or openings along the surface of the outer sleeve.These vents or openings can be structurally designed to provideappropriate air flow to the parts of the descender device that are mostprone to heating during a deployment. In at least one example, the airgaps can be created by reducing wall thickness at specific points alongthe circumference of the vented sleeve. The inner sleeve, in at leastone embodiment, is manufactured from a metal or metal like material thatallows for the capture of heat from the descender device. In someexamples, the inner sleeve can be coated with a material that allows forincreased absorption of heat from the descender device. The inner sleevecan interface with designated portions of the inner circumferentialsurface of the outer sleeve and/or can be engaged with a stabilizationpin placed through the stabilization point. There can be air gapsmanufactured into the outer sleeve to allow for increased air flow.

FIG. 18A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination 400A for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combinationcan include a vented sleeve 430, which in at least one embodiment, canbe referenced as an outer sleeve 430. The vented sleeve 430 can bemanufactured as a non-pliable plastic based material. Some examples of anon-pliable plastic or composite based material can be acrylonitrilebutadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon. It would beunderstood that other materials of similar or like compositions may besubstituted and/or added to the composition without departing from thespirit of the present disclosure. Additives may include strengtheners orother materials to increase the supportive or thermal structure of thematerial.

The vented sleeve 430 can include at least one button aperture 431 toallow for a user to access a portion of a descent controller (notillustrated). The at least one button aperture 431 can include anaperture passing through one or more sleeves of the multi-sleevecombination 400A. In at least one example, the at least one buttonaperture 431 may have an engagement surface with a concave design fromthe outer surface to the inner surface of one or more of the sleeves ofthe multi-sleeve combination 400A. The concave design may also includean oval or circular design on the outer surface, and a smaller oval orcircular design on the inner surface of one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve design.

The multi-sleeve combination 400A can allow for one or more vents 433that allow for air, or the movement of air to pass to or from thedescent controller (not illustrated). The shapes and/or sizes of thevents can be of any number of configurations, shapes, or designs asdiscussed above.

The one or more vents 433 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 435. The separation support(s) 435 can allow for the one ormore vents 433 to have various shapes and/or configurations as discussedabove.

The top 453 of the vented sleeve 430, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 451 that allows a rope or other deploymentdevice to pass through the vented sleeve 430 to the descent controller.The top 453 of the vented sleeve 430, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 433are placed. In other examples, the top 453 can have a concave or convexsurface configuration that allows for the configuration of variousshapes and/or design specifications as discussed above. Furthermore, thevented sleeve 430 can include an extending peripheral notch 472 asdiscussed above.

FIG. 18B is a rear view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 400Bfor a descent controller. In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleevecombination 400B can include an inner or protective sleeve 441, and avented sleeve or outer sleeve 430. The inner sleeve 441, in at least oneexample, is manufactured, formed, and/or constructed from a metallicbased material. Examples of a metallic based material can includealuminum, steel, titanium, and/or combinations or compositions thereof.The vented sleeve 430 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic basedmaterial. Some examples of a non-pliable plastic or composite basedmaterial can be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid(PLA), or nylon. It would be understood that other materials of similaror like compositions may be substituted and/or added to the compositionwithout departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additivesmay include strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportiveor thermal structure of the material.

Each of the sleeves 441, and/or 430 can each have a set of aperturesand/or openings that allow for the passage of air from outside of themulti-sleeve combination 400B into a central area where a descentcontroller (not illustrated) is received within the multi-sleevecombination 400B. In at least one embodiment, each of the sleeves 430,and/or 441 have the same openings, apertures, and/or other voids. Theseopenings can be aligned with vents 433A, 433B, 433C, 433F, 433G, 433H,and/or 433I (collectively vents 433).

The vents 433, can be separated by separation support(s) 435A, 435B,435C, 435D, 435E, 435F, and/or 435G (collectively separation supports435). These separation supports 435 may include vertical and horizontalsupport for the vents 433. In at least one examples, separation supports435A, 435B, 435C, and/or 435D may be utilized as vertical separationsupports, while separation supports 435E, 435F, and/or 435G can beutilized as horizontal separation supports. In some examples, theseparation supports 435 in a horizontal configuration may be designed tobe at least as wide or wider than the vents 433 that are adjacent to theseparation supports 435. Additionally, in at least one example, theseparation supports 435 in a vertical configuration can be designed tobe the same or smaller in width than the vents 433 they are adjacent to.

The vents 433 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 400B. For example, vent 433H maybe greater in length than vents 433A, 433B, and/or 433I. In otherexamples, vent 433A may be longer than vents 433B and/or 433F, allow forincreased air flow because of the at least one button aperture (shown inFIG. 18A as the at least one button aperture 431). Similarly, because ofthe at least one button aperture, vents 433A, 433B, 433F, and/or 433Gmay be shorter in length to allow for the size of the at least onebutton aperture.

The multi-sleeve combination 400B may have an advertisement or labelsurface 482. The advertisement or label surface 482 may allow forprinted materials to be added to the surface of the vented sleeve 430 orinner sleeve 441. While in other examples, an advertisement or labelwould be added during manufacturing to the advertising or label surface482.

FIG. 18C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 400Cfor a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combination 400C is utilizedwith a descent controller (not illustrated) to provide a buffer betweenthe rope movements, descent controller, and a user's hand or other bodyparts. One function of the buffer is to prevent a user from burningtheir hands, arms, or other body parts due to friction and/or ropemovements through and/or around a descent controller. In order toprevent heat from reaching a user's hands, sleeves should be utilizedaround the descent controller.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 400C caninclude an outer or vented sleeve 430, and an inner sleeve. The ventedsleeve 430 can have vents 433A, 433B, 433C, 433D, and/or 433E(collectively vents 433) through them that allows for additional airflow to and/or through the descent controller. The vents 433 can besized and/or shaped to allow for air flow and/or cooling to be maximizedfor the particular deployment use cases as discussed above.

The one or more vents 433 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 435E, 435F, and/or 435G (collectively separation support(s)435). The separation support(s) 435 can allow for the one or more vents433 to have various shapes and/or configurations as discussed above.

The vented sleeve 430 can also allow for an at least one button aperture431 that allows for user engagement or interactivity with the descentcontroller. The at least one button aperture 431 can allow for a buttonor other engagement mechanism that is smaller than the diameter of theaperture opening to pass through or allow a user's finger or other limbto pass through and engage with the descent controller. The at least onebutton aperture 431 can have an aperture surface 486 that allow for aslope or other surface characteristics that allow a user to more easilyengage with the descent controller.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 430 can also havean advertising surface 482 that allows for advertisements or otherinformation to be placed or provided to a user. The inner sleeve (notshown) and/or vented sleeve 430 may be coupled together through the useof a securing pin that can pass through the securing aperture 455. Thesecuring pin can be utilized to ensure the various sleeves do not shiftbetween the preferred positions during use, storage, and/or travel. Ifthe sleeves shift for any reason the air flow to and/or around thedescent controller can be restricted and result in overheating.

FIG. 18D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 400Dfor a descent controller. The top view of the multi-sleeve combination400D shows the rope aperture 451 and how it passes through the top 453of the vented sleeve 430. The rope aperture 451 can include an aperturelip or edge 490 that can allow for a beveled and/or rounded edge thatwould not fray or damage the rope if it came in contact with the edge490. The vented sleeve lip 492 can have a rounded and/or beveled edge toprevent a user from gripping a sharp or contoured edge during use,storage, or travel.

FIG. 18E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination400E for a descent controller. The bottom view illustration of themulti-sleeve combination 400E shows the inner sleeve 441, and the ventedsleeve 430. The vented sleeve 430 in at least one embodiment, is thethickest of the two sleeves illustrated. In at least one example, thevented sleeve 430 may have a sleeve lip 494, which can be rounded orbeveled to prevent damage to a user or a rope during deployment. Therope aperture 451 can pass through the top 453 of the vented sleeve 430.The side wall of the vented sleeve 430 can include an extendingperipheral notch 472 that allows for ropes, and/or other deploymentcomponents to be provided into the area surrounded by the multi-sleevecombination 400E. Additionally, the air gap(s) 491A and/or 491B(collectively air gaps 491) allow for increased air flow within theinternal areas of the multi-sleeve combination 400E. In at least oneembodiment, the air gaps 491 are manufactured into the vented sleeve 430as a decreased wall thickness. In at least one example, the air gaps 491are manufactured in specific locations to allow for air flow to bedirected to the most heat generating portions of the descent controller.The air gaps 491 may range from 1 mm in depth, to several millimeters indepth, but will always be less than the thickness of the vented sleeve430 in this embodiment.

FIG. 18F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination400F for a descent controller. The cut-away view of the multi-sleevecombination 400F shows the positioning and linking of the multi-sleevecombination 400F. In particular, the inner sleeve 441 interfaces withthe vented sleeve 430. In at least one example, a set of air gaps 491Aand/or 491B (collectively air gaps 491) are provided between the innersleeve 441 and the vented sleeve 430.

The multi-sleeve combination can include a vented sleeve 430, which inat least one embodiment, can be referenced as an outer sleeve 430. Thevented sleeve 430 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic basedmaterial. Some examples of a non-pliable plastic or composite basedmaterial can be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid(PLA), or nylon. It would be understood that other materials of similaror like compositions may be substituted and/or added to the compositionwithout departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additivesmay include strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportiveor thermal structure of the material.

The vented sleeve 430 can include at least one button aperture 431 toallow for a user (not illustrated) to access a portions of a descentcontroller (not illustrated). The at least one button aperture 431 caninclude an aperture passing through one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve combination 400A. In at least one example, the at least onebutton aperture 431 may have an engagement surface that allows for aconcave design from the outer surface to the inner surface of one ormore of the sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 400F. The concavedesign may also include an oval or circular design on the outer surface,and a smaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve design.

The inner sleeve 441 can have openings that correspond to the openings433 through the vented sleeve 430. Additionally, in at least oneexample, the inner sleeve may have additional openings that allow forheat to transfer from the descent controller to the vented sleeve 430.For example, the vented sleeve 430 and/or inner sleeve 441 may bemanufactured from a material that is capable of absorbing and/ortransferring heat away from one surface to another. Another example ofheat transfer points could be a labeling or advertising surface 482 thatcan be utilized for labeling, advertising, and/or logos. These surfacescan be made with a depth that allows for specific heat transfercharacteristics. There is also the rope aperture 451 along the top 453of the vented sleeve 430 that allows for ropes or other devices ormechanisms to pass through. It should be noted that while the innersleeve 441 is shown without a top, it could have one as part of thedesign if chosen without departing from the spirit of the presentdisclosure.

Additionally, the air gap(s) 491A and/or 491B (collectively air gaps491) illustrated provide increased air flow within the internal areas ofthe multi-sleeve combination 400E. In at least one embodiment, the airgaps 491 are manufactured into the vented sleeve 430. In at least oneexample, the air gaps 491 are placed in specific locations to allow forair flow to be directed to the most heat generating portions of thedescent controller. Furthermore, the vented sleeve 430 can include anextending peripheral notch 472 as discussed above.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination400A for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combination can includea vented sleeve 430, which in at least one embodiment can be referencedas a middle or intermediate sleeve 430, and an inner sleeve 441. Thevented sleeve 430 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic-basedmaterial. Some examples of a non-pliable plastic or composite basedmaterial can be acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid(PLA), or nylon. It would be understood that other materials of similaror like compositions may be substituted and/or added to the compositionwithout departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additivesmay include strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportiveor thermal structure of the material. For example, the inner sleeve 441may have a thermal property that causes heat to transfer to a thermallyconductive plastic of the vented sleeve 430.

The vented sleeve 430 can include at least one button aperture 431 toallow for a user (not illustrated) to access a portion of a descentcontroller (not illustrated). The at least one button aperture 431 caninclude an aperture passing through one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve combination 400A. In at least one example, the at least onebutton aperture 431 may have an engagement surface that allows for aconcave design from the outer surface to the inner surface of one ormore of the sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 400A. The concavedesign may also include an oval or circular design on the outer surface,and a smaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve design. The at least one buttonaperture 431, can have an aperture surface 486 that allow for a slope orother surface characteristics that allow a user to more easily engagewith the descent controller.

The multi-sleeve combination 400A can have vents 433A, 433B, and/or 433C(collectively vents 433) that allow for air, or the movement of air topass to or from the descent controller (not illustrated). The shapesand/or sizes of the vents can be of any number of configurations,shapes, or designs as discussed above.

The multi-sleeve combination 400A may have an advertisement or labelsurface 482 that may allow for printed materials to be added to thesurface of the vented sleeve 430 or inner sleeve 441. While in otherexamples, an advertisement or label can be added during manufacturing tothe advertising or label surface 482.

The vented sleeve 430, and/or inner sleeve 441 may be coupled togetherthrough the use of a securing pin that can pass through the securingaperture 455. The securing pin can be utilized to ensure the varioussleeves do not shift between the preferred positions during use,storage, and/or travel. If the sleeves shift for any reason, the airflow to and/or around the descent controller can be restricted andresult in overheating.

The one or more vents 433 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 435. The separation support(s) 435 can allow for the one ormore vents 433 to have various shapes and/or configurations as discussedabove.

In at least one example, there may also be partial separation support(s)437. The partial separation support(s) 437 can have a depth that is lessthan the separation support 435. In at least one embodiment, the partialseparation support(s) 437 is at least one half the depth of theseparation support 435, but no more than two-thirds the depth of theseparation support 435.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 400A caninclude a peripheral notch 472 for ropes or other deployment devices topass through the vented sleeve 430 and/or other sleeves of themulti-sleeve combination. Additionally, the air gap(s) 491A and/or 491B(collectively air gaps 491) provide increased air flow within theinternal areas of the multi-sleeve combination 400E. In at least oneembodiment, the air gaps 491 are manufactured into the vented sleeve430. In at least one example, the air gaps 491 are manufactured inspecific locations to allow for air flow to be directed to the most heatgenerating portions of the descent controller. The air gaps 491 mayrange from 1 mm in depth, to several millimeters in depth, but willalways be less than the thickness of the vented sleeve 430.

FIGS. 20A-20F are an illustration of a multi-sleeve design having atwo-part inner sleeve and a single outer sleeve. The two-part innersleeve allows for heat transfer from specific portions of the descentcontroller. In some examples, the two-part inner sleeve allows for theability to control heat transfer from the inner sleeve to the outersleeve in specific areas.

FIG. 20A is a perspective view illustration of a multi-sleevecombination 500A for a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combinationcan include a vented sleeve 530, which in at least one embodiment, canbe referenced as a middle or intermediate sleeve 530. The vented sleeve530 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic-based material. Someexamples of a non-pliable plastic or composite based material can beacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon.It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions may be substituted and/or added to the composition withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additives mayinclude strengtheners or other materials to increase the supportive orthermal structure of the material.

The vented sleeve 530 can include at least one button aperture 531 toallow for a user (not illustrated) to access a portion of a descentcontroller (not illustrated). The at least one button aperture 531 caninclude an aperture passing through one or more sleeves of themulti-sleeve combination 500A. In at least one example, the at least onebutton aperture 531 may have an engagement surface that allows for aconcave design from the outer surface to the inner surface of one ormore of the sleeves of the multi-sleeve combination 500A. The concavedesign may also include an oval or circular design on the outer surface,and a smaller oval or circular design on the inner surface of one ormore sleeves of the multi-sleeve design.

The multi-sleeve combination 500A can allow for one or more vents 533that allow for air, or the movement of air to pass to or from thedescent controller (not illustrated). The shapes and/or sizes of thevents can be of any number of configurations, shapes, or designs asdiscussed above.

The one or more vents 533 can be supported by one or more separationsupport(s) 535. The separation support(s) 535 can allow for the one ormore vents 533 to have various shapes and/or configurations as discussedabove.

The top 553 of the vented sleeve 530, in at least one embodiment, caninclude a rope aperture 551 for a rope or other deployment device topass through the vented sleeve 530 to the descent controller. The top553 of the vented sleeve 530, in at least one example, can beperpendicular to the side walls through which the one or more vents 533are placed. In other examples, the top 553 can have a concave or convexsurface configuration that allows for the configuration of variousshapes and/or design specifications as discussed above. Furthermore, thevented sleeve 530 can include an extending peripheral notch 572 thatallows for ropes or other deployment devices to pass through the ventedsleeve 530.

FIG. 20B is a side view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 500Bfor a descent controller. In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleevecombination 500B can include a two part inner or protective sleeve 541Aand/or 541B (collectively inner sleeve 541), and a vented sleeve orouter sleeve 530. The inner sleeve 541, in at least one example, ismanufactured, formed, and/or constructed from a metallic based material.Examples of a metallic based material can include aluminum, steel,titanium, and/or combinations or compositions thereof. The vented sleeve530 can be manufactured as a non-pliable plastic based material. Someexamples of a non-pliable plastic or composite based material can beacrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polylactic acid (PLA), or nylon.It would be understood that other materials of similar or likecompositions, may be substituted, and/or added to the compositionwithout departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Additivesmay include strengtheners, or other materials to increase the supportiveor thermal structure of the material.

Each of the sleeves 541 and/or 530 can have a set of apertures and/oropenings that allow for the passage of air from outside of themulti-sleeve combination 500B into a central area where a descentcontroller (not illustrated) is received within the multi-sleevecombination 500B. In at least one embodiment, each of the sleeves 530and/or 541 have the same openings, apertures, and/or other voids. Theseopenings can be aligned with vents 533A, 533B, 533C, 233F, 533G, 533H,and/or 533I (collectively vents 533).

The vents 533, can be separated by separation support(s) 535A, 535B,535C, 535D, 535E, 535F, and/or 535G (collectively separation supports535). These separation supports 535 may include vertical and horizontalsupport for the vents 533. In at least one examples, separation supports535A, 535B, 535C, and/or 535D may be utilized as vertical separationsupports, while separation supports 535E, 535F, and/or 535G can beutilized as horizontal separation supports. In some examples, theseparation supports 535 in a horizontal configuration may be designed tobe at least as wide or wider than the vents 533 that are adjacent to theseparation supports 535. Additionally, in at least one example, theseparation supports 535 in a vertical configuration can be designed tobe the same or smaller in width than the vents 533 they are adjacent to.

The vents 533 may vary in length based on positions along the side wallsurface of the multi-sleeve combination 500B. For example, vent 533H maybe greater in length than vents 533A, 533B, and/or 533I. In otherexamples, vent 533A may be longer than vents 533B and/or 533F, to allowfor increased air flow because of the at least one button aperture(shown in FIG. 20A as the at least one button aperture 531). Similarly,because of the at least one button aperture, vents 533A, 533B, 533F,and/or 533G may be shorter in length to allow for the size of the atleast one button aperture. The multi-sleeve combination 500B may have anadvertisement or label surface 582.

FIG. 20C is a front view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 500Cfor a descent controller. The multi-sleeve combination 500C is utilizedwith a descent controller (not illustrated) to provide a buffer betweenthe rope movements and descent controller, and a user's hand or otherbody parts. One part of the buffer is to prevent a user from burningtheir hands, arms, or other body parts due to friction and/or ropemovements through and/or around a descent controller. In order toprevent heat from reaching a user's hands, sleeves should be utilizedaround the descent controller.

In at least one embodiment, the multi-sleeve combination 500C caninclude an outer or vented sleeve 530, and an inner sleeve(s) 541. Thevented sleeve 530 can have vents 533A, 533B, 533C, 533D, and/or 533E(collectively vents 533) through them that allows for additional airflow to and/or through the descent controller. The one or more vents 533can be supported by one or more separation support(s) 535E, 535F, and/or535G (collectively separation support(s) 535). The separation support(s)535 can allow for the one or more vents 533 to have various shapesand/or configurations as discussed above.

The vented sleeve 530 can also allow for an at least one button aperture531 that allows for user engagement or interactivity with the descentcontroller. The at least one button aperture 531 can allow for a buttonor other engagement mechanism that is smaller than the diameter of theaperture opening to pass through or allow a user's finger or other limbto pass through and engage with the descent controller. The at least onebutton aperture 531, can have an aperture surface 586 that allow for aslope or other surface characteristics that allow a user to more easilyengage with the descent controller. From the outer edge 588 to the atleast one button aperture 531, the aperture surface 586 can beinterfaced between these two points and/or edges. In some examples theouter edge 588 may have a lip or other depression along the surface ofthe side wall of the vented sleeve 530. In at least one example, theouter sleeve 580 may have a corresponding opening or aperture that issized equal to or greater than the diameter of the outer edge 588.

In some examples, the side wall of the vented sleeve 530 can also have alabeling surface 584 that allows for a manufacturer or other logos ordesigns to be placed and seen by users. Similarly, there may also be anadvertising surface 582 that allows for advertisements or otherinformation to be placed or provided to a user. These surfaces 582 and584 may be visible through the outer sleeve 580, or the outer sleeve 580may have additional apertures or openings over the surfaces 582 and 584.The inner sleeve (not shown), and/or vented sleeve 530 may be coupledtogether through the use of a securing pin that can pass through thesecuring aperture 555. The securing pin can be utilized to ensure thevarious sleeves do not shift between the preferred positions during use,storage, and/or travel. If the sleeves shift for any reason the air flowto and/or around the descent controller can be restricted and result inoverheating.

FIG. 20D is a top view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination 500Dfor a descent controller. The top view of the multi-sleeve combination500D shows the rope aperture 551, and how it passes through the top 553of the vented sleeve 530. The rope aperture 551 can include an aperturelip or edge 590 that has a beveled and/or rounded edge that would notfray or damage the rope if it came in contact with the edge 590. Thevented sleeve lip 592 can have a rounded and/or beveled edge to preventa user from gripping a sharp or contoured edge during use, storage, ortravel.

FIG. 20E is a bottom view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination500E for a descent controller. The bottom view illustration of themulti-sleeve combination 500E shows the inner sleeve 541 and/or thevented sleeve 530. In at least one example, the two-part inner orprotective sleeve 541 provides for directed air flow and/or heattransfer. The vented sleeve 530 in at least one embodiment, is thethickest of the three sleeves illustrated. In at least one example, thevented sleeve 530 may have a sleeve lip 594 that can be rounded orbeveled to prevent damage to a user or a rope during deployment. Therope aperture 551 can pass through the top 553 of the vented sleeve 530.The side wall of the vented sleeve 530 can include an extendingperipheral notch 572 that allows for ropes, and/or other deploymentcomponents to be provided into the area surrounded by the multi-sleevecombination 500E.

FIG. 20F is a cut-away view illustration of a multi-sleeve combination500F for a descent controller. The cut-away view of the multi-sleevecombination 500F shows the positioning and linking of the multi-sleevecombination 500F. In particular, a two part inner or protective sleeve541A and/or 541B (collectively inner sleeve 541) interfaces with thevented sleeve 530. In at least one example, there can be an air gapbetween the inner sleeve 541 and the vented sleeve 530. The ventedsleeve 530 can also include an at least one button aperture 531 asdescribed above.

The inner sleeve 541 has openings that correspond to the openings 533through the vented sleeve 530. Additionally, in at least one example,the inner sleeve has additional openings that allow for heat to transferfrom the descent controller to the vented sleeve 530. For example, thevented sleeve 530 and/or inner sleeve 541 may be manufactured from amaterial that is capable of absorbing and/or transferring heat away fromone surface to another. Another example of heat transfer points could bethe two surfaces 582 and 584 that can be utilized for labeling,advertising, and/or logos. These surfaces can be made with a depth thatallows for specific heat transfer characteristics.

There is also the rope aperture 551 along the top 553 of the ventedsleeve 530 that allows for ropes or other devices or mechanisms to passthrough. It should be noted that while the inner sleeve 541 is shownwithout a top, it could have one as part of the design if chosen withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Furthermore, thevented sleeve 530 can include an extending peripheral notch as describedabove.

While certain illustrative embodiments have been shown in the drawingsand described above in considerable detail, it should be understood thatthere is no intention to limit the disclosure to the specific formsdisclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,alternative constructions, equivalents, and uses falling within thespirit and scope of the disclosure as expressed in the appended claims.

While this disclosure has been particularly shown and described withreference to preferred embodiments, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be madetherein without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure.The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations asappropriate, and the inventors intend the disclosure to be practicedotherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, thisdisclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subjectmatter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicablelaw. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in allpossible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unlessotherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

While various embodiments in accordance with the principles disclosedherein have been described above, it should be understood that they havebeen presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Thus, thebreadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of theabove-described exemplary embodiments but should be defined only inaccordance with any claims and their equivalents issuing from thisdisclosure. Furthermore, the above advantages and features are providedin described embodiments but shall not limit the application of suchissued claims to processes and structures accomplishing any or all ofthe above advantages.

Additionally, the section headings herein are provided for consistencywith the suggestions under 37 C.F.R. 1.77 or otherwise to provideorganizational cues. These headings shall not limit or characterize theinvention(s) set out in any claims that may issue from this disclosure.Specifically, and by way of example, although the headings refer to a“Technical Field,” the claims should not be limited by the languagechosen under this heading to describe the so-called field. Further, adescription of a technology as background information is not to beconstrued as an admission that certain technology is prior art to anyembodiment(s) in this disclosure. Neither is the “Brief Summary” to beconsidered as a characterization of the embodiment(s) set forth inissued claims. Furthermore, any reference in this disclosure to“invention” in the singular should not be used to argue that there isonly a single point of novelty in this disclosure. Multiple embodimentsmay be set forth according to the limitations of the multiple claimsissuing from this disclosure, and such claims accordingly define theembodiment(s), and their equivalents, that are protected thereby. In allinstances, the scope of such claims shall be considered on their ownmerits in light of this disclosure but should not be constrained by theheadings set forth herein.

We claim:
 1. An apparatus for descent control comprising: a housingcomprising a longitudinal capstan portion, the longitudinal capstanportion defining a longitudinal counterbore therein; a plunger disposedwithin the longitudinal counterbore for movement between a ropereleasing position and a rope braking position; a biasing member withinthe longitudinal counterbore for biasing the plunger toward the ropebraking position; a protective sleeve partially enclosing the housing;and a vented sleeve enclosing the protective sleeve, wherein the ventedsleeve and the protective sleeve comprise a plurality of ventsconfigured to provide an air flow to the longitudinal capstan portion ofthe housing.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising at leastone air gap between the vented sleeve and the protective sleeve.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising an outer sleeve enclosing thevented sleeve.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the outer ventedsleeve is manufactured from a plastic based composite material.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein the at least one air gap is configured toprovide increased air flow through an end of the vented sleeve andthrough the plurality of air vents.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe protective sleeve comprises two distinct parts.
 7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the vented sleeve has at least one rope aperture at afirst end of the vented sleeve separate from the plurality of vents. 8.The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the outer sleeve is manufactured froma metallic based composite material.
 9. An apparatus for descent controlcomprising: a housing comprising a longitudinal capstan portion, thelongitudinal capstan portion defining a longitudinal counterboretherein; a plunger disposed within the longitudinal counterbore formovement between a rope releasing position and a rope braking position;a biasing member within the longitudinal counterbore for biasing theplunger toward the rope braking position; a protective sleeve partiallyenclosing the housing; and a vented sleeve enclosing the protectivesleeve, wherein the vented sleeve forms at least one air gap between thevented sleeve and the protective sleeve.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9,wherein the vented sleeve is manufactured from a plastic based compositematerial.
 11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the protective sleeve ismanufactured from a metallic based composite material.
 12. The apparatusof claim 9, wherein the protective sleeve comprises two distinct parts.13. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the vented sleeve forms aplurality of air gaps between the vented sleeve and the protectivesleeve.
 14. The apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a metallicsleeve partially enclosing the outer vented sleeve.
 15. A vented sleevefor use with a rope operated device comprising: a cylindrical bodycomprised of a wall having an inner surface and an outer surface; atleast one vent passing from the outer surface to the inner surface; atop at a first end of the vented sleeve, and the top defining a ropeaperture; a second end opposing the first end, the second end being opento allow the rope operated device to be at least partially insertedwithin the vented sleeve; and a plurality of offset bridges formed alongthe inner surface of the cylindrical body.
 16. The vented sleeve ofclaim 15, wherein the at least one vent comprises at least two vents.17. The vented sleeve of claim 16, wherein the vented sleeve furthercomprises at least one separation support between the at least twovents.
 18. The vented sleeve of claim 17, wherein the at least oneseparation support has a depth less than that between the outer surfaceand the inner surface of the cylindrical body.
 19. The vented sleeve ofclaim 16, wherein the vented sleeve further comprises at least onepartial separation support between the at least two vents.
 20. Thevented sleeve of claim 15, wherein the height of the offset bridgesextending from the circumferential wall is greater than the thickness ofthe circumferential wall.